Call Us: 
Long Beach, California – Authorities have identified a 66-year-old man who died after being struck by a vehicle while crossing a Long Beach roadway Sunday night.
The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s office confirmed the victim as John Leuders, who was hit around 9:05 p.m. on Wardlow Road near Norwalk Boulevard, according to the Long Beach Police Department.
Emergency crews from the Long Beach Fire Department treated Leuders at the scene before transporting him to a hospital, where he later died from his injuries.
According to a police statement, the preliminary investigation found that a white Honda CR-V driven by a 56-year-old Garden Grove woman was traveling eastbound on Wardlow Road when it struck Leuders, who was crossing outside of a marked crosswalk. Officers said the driver stayed at the scene and cooperated with investigators.
Police also noted that speed, distracted driving, and impairment are not believed to be contributing factors in the collision.
Authorities urged anyone who witnessed the crash to contact the LBPD Collision Investigation Detail at 562-570-7355. Anonymous tips may be submitted through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).
Driver Liability When They Remain at the Scene of a Deadly Pedestrian Collision
When a driver stays at the scene of a fatal pedestrian accident, they avoid potential hit-and-run charges — but they may still face civil liability depending on how the collision occurred. Remaining at the scene allows investigators to document statements, evaluate evidence, and determine whether negligence such as speeding, failing to yield, or distracted driving contributed to the death. Even if police do not file criminal charges, the victim’s family may still pursue a civil claim with the help of a wrongful death attorney california or a pedestrian accident lawyer california to seek compensation for funeral costs, loss of income, and emotional damages.
Cooperating with law enforcement does not eliminate potential civil responsibility. Families can file a wrongful death claim regardless of whether the driver was cited or arrested. For cases occurring in Long Beach, a car accident attorney in Long Beach can help analyze roadway conditions, witness accounts, surveillance footage, and the driver’s actions to build a strong case for liability.If your family is navigating the aftermath of a deadly pedestrian collision, Megeredchian Law is ready to guide you, protect your rights, and fight for the compensation your loved one is entitled to. Call (866) 359-0807 for a free consultation.
