Santa Monica, California – Authorities have identified two pedestrians who were killed when a wrong-way driver veered onto a sidewalk in Santa Monica on Friday night, striking four people before fleeing the scene on foot.
The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office confirmed that the victims were Maura Cohen, 61, and Brad Lipshy, 61, the CEO of a Santa Monica event planning firm. Both were pronounced dead at the scene of the crash, which occurred around 9:15 p.m. in the 1300 block of Wilshire Boulevard.
According to Santa Monica Police Lt. Lewis Gilmour, preliminary findings show that the vehicle was traveling westbound in the eastbound lanes of Wilshire Boulevard when it suddenly drove onto the sidewalk, hitting four pedestrians. Two other victims were hospitalized but are expected to survive their injuries.
Police said the suspect, described as a male approximately six feet tall wearing a red hat, black sweater, and black shoes, abandoned the vehicle and fled before officers arrived. The car—registered to a corporate entity—has since been recovered.
Investigators have collected substantial evidence from the scene, including witness statements and security footage, which are now being analyzed as part of the ongoing investigation.
Santa Monica Interim Police Chief Darrick Jacob expressed condolences to the victims’ families and emphasized the department’s commitment to finding the suspect.
“We recognize the gravity of this tragedy and the impact it has on our community,” Jacob said. “Our investigators are working tirelessly to identify and locate the suspect responsible, and our hearts are with the families of the victims who are experiencing unimaginable loss.”
Anyone with information about the hit-and-run is urged to contact Santa Monica police at 310-458-2201, ext. 5311, or the watch commander at 310-458-8327. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or online at lacrimestoppers.org.
How to Claim Compensation After a Hit-and-Run Crash That Left Two Dead and Others Injured
A hit-and-run accident that results in multiple fatalities and serious injuries can leave families and survivors struggling to recover—both emotionally and financially. When a reckless driver flees the scene, victims still have legal options to seek justice and obtain compensation for their losses.
Understanding Liability in a Fatal Hit-and-Run Accident
Even if the at-fault driver cannot be located immediately, an experienced hit and run accident attorney can help identify all possible sources of compensation. This may include uninsured motorist (UM) coverage, which allows victims or their families to recover damages through their own insurance policy.
If the driver is later found, they can be held civilly and criminally liable for the deaths and injuries caused. Families who lost loved ones may also have grounds to file a claim with a wrongful death attorney in California to pursue justice for funeral expenses, lost income, and emotional suffering.
Compensation Available After a Hit-and-Run Fatality
Victims injured in the crash—or the surviving families of those killed—can seek compensation for:
- Medical and rehabilitation costs
- Lost wages or earning potential
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Emotional distress and loss of companionship
- Pain and suffering
A qualified car accident law firm can help assess the full value of your claim and ensure that all liable parties are held accountable.
Legal Options for Pedestrians and Bystanders
Pedestrians and bystanders struck in a hit-and-run can file claims with the help of a skilled pedestrian accident lawyer in California. These claims often involve complex investigations that rely on surveillance footage, eyewitness accounts, and forensic evidence to identify the responsible driver.
Why You Need an Experienced Legal Team
Hit-and-run cases are often more complicated than standard traffic accidents because the driver may not be identified right away. Working with car accident lawyers in California ensures your case is handled promptly and effectively, maximizing your chances of financial recovery. A seasoned Los Angeles car accident attorney will also coordinate with law enforcement and insurance companies on your behalf, allowing you to focus on healing and rebuilding your life.
Contact Megeredchian Law
If you or a loved one were affected by a fatal hit-and-run accident, the team at Megeredchian Law is ready to help. Our attorneys have extensive experience representing victims of catastrophic and fatal crashes throughout California.Call (866) 359-0807 today for a free, no-obligation consultation with our compassionate legal team. We will fight to ensure you receive the justice and compensation you deserve.