An 80-year-old bicyclist was killed in a hit-and-run collision in Long Beach on Monday afternoon, January 20, 2025.
According to the Long Beach Police Department, officers responded to the Pleasant Street and Atlantic Avenue intersection around 12:15 p.m. following reports of a traffic crash between a vehicle and a bicyclist.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the cyclist, identified as E. Barajas, was northbound on Atlantic Avenue. He merged into the number one lane from the bike lane when he was sideswiped by a white SUV traveling in the same direction in the number two lane.
The driver fled the scene without stopping. Barajas was transported to a hospital in critical condition, where he succumbed to his injuries the following day.
Authorities seek the public’s help in locating the responsible driver. Anyone with information about the incident is urged to call 562-570-7355. Anonymous tips can be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 800-222-8477 or online at lacrimestoppers.org.
Don’t Know What To Do After An Accident?
Your safety and rights depend on what you do next after an accident. Remember the following steps if you find yourself in one:
- Check yourself for any injuries.
- Stay on the scene, call 9-1-1, and wait for emergency responders.
- Move your vehicle to the road shoulder if safe; turn on hazard lights.
- Fully cooperate with law enforcement and stay until cleared to leave.
- Document the scene and injuries with photos and videos.
- Seek immediate medical attention.
- Contact your insurance company and find a personal injury lawyer for legal advice.
What A Lawyer Can Do For You
Many victims put off calling a lawyer even if they sustain injuries after an accident. However, lawyers can help you in many ways. They can provide you with police reports, CCTV footage, and witness statements to strengthen your case. Your attorney will also negotiate with insurance companies to get you fair compensation. The best part is that they will do all of these things for you at no upfront cost. So if you’re injured in an accident, hire a personal injury attorney to recover medical bills, car repair costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering.