White Cadillac sedan struck pedestrian on way to bus stop near Kansas Avenue
December 10, 2025 | Calabasas, CA
Los Angeles authorities are investigating a fatal hit-and-run incident that claimed the life of a 32-year-old pedestrian.
The collision occurred near the busy intersection of Florence and Kansas avenues in South Los Angeles, prompting a public appeal for witnesses.
What Happened in the Crash?
Tomas Lopez Onofre, 32, succumbed to injuries after being struck in a pedestrian hit-and-run near Florence and Kansas avenues in South Los Angeles.
Tomas Lopez Onofre was walking to catch a bus for his job as a forklift operator when he was struck by a vehicle. The crash caused severe injuries that led to his death four days later at a local hospital, as confirmed by the county medical examiner.
Key details include:
- Victim: Tomas Lopez Onofre, age 32
- Location: Intersection of Florence and Kansas avenues, South Los Angeles
- Date: Dec. 10, 2025
- Vehicle Involved: White Cadillac sedan
- Outcome: Victim succumbed to injuries, and driver fled the scene
- Status: Driver remains at large, and $50,000 reward offered for information
Police continue to gather evidence and urge anyone with details to come forward.
Why Do Hit-and-Run Crashes Occur in Urban Areas?
Hit-and-run incidents often stem from factors like poor visibility, high traffic volumes, and driver panic. In urban settings, these crashes contribute significantly to pedestrian fatalities, highlighting the need for greater accountability.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), pedestrian deaths in hit-and-runs have risen sharply in recent years. The following table summarizes key statistics:
Category |
Statistic |
Source |
|---|
Total Hit-and-Run Fatalities (2023) |
2,872 |
NHTSA |
Pedestrian Deaths in Hit-and-Runs (2023) |
1,818 (25% of 7,314 total) |
NHTSA |
Urban Hit-and-Run Incidents |
75% of pedestrian hit-and-runs |
NHTSA |
Increase Since 2019 |
32% rise in such tragedies |
NHTSA |
These figures underscore the urgency of thorough investigations to prevent future losses.
Legal Insights
Newsline features analysis from experienced professionals to provide context on motor vehicle incidents like this one.
“In cases such as this, having the proper resources is extremely important to investigate a pedestrian accident and prove negligence,” said Candice Bond, a managing partner of Bond Legal. “Road conditions, signage visibility, and road lighting are all possible contributing factors that are considered and must thoroughly be examined. These procedures are necessary for helping those who have lost a loved one receive the justice that they deserve.”
Key takeaways:
- Drivers must exercise great care, especially in pedestrian-heavy areas.
- Comprehensive reviews of environmental factors can strengthen legal cases.
- Accountability measures protect public safety and deter fleeing drivers.
“The stress and sorrow can be extremely overwhelming after losing a loved one in an accident,” said Stefano Formica, of counsel with Bond Legal. “We understand just what families are forced to go through, and having their rights protected is vital. A wrongful death lawyer will stay updated on the official investigation and help ensure that their legal rights and best interests are protected.”
Families may pursue wrongful death claims for damages including loss of companionship, pain and suffering, and emotional distress.
How Can Families Seek Justice After a Fatal Crash?
Pending the ongoing investigation, relatives of victims in similar situations often consult legal professionals to explore options. Newsline emphasizes the importance of prompt action to preserve evidence and rights.
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If you’ve been injured or lost a loved one in a hit-and-run, national legal analyst Candice Bond is available for a free, no-obligation consultation.
(Candice Bond, our national legal analyst, is a Managing Partner at Bond Legal. Newsline can and does use quotes from prior interviews with our analysts for our news articles. If you would like to contact Bond Legal to help you, please call 866-985-6515 or use the submission box found on this page. Legal analysts quoted may or may not be licensed in your state).