Pedestrian fatally struck in hit and run near USC


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A pedestrian was struck in a hit and run accident on the intersection of W. 23rd Street and Portland Street on Tuesday night. He succumbed to his injuries early Wednesday morning, according to police.

The victim was identified by LAPD Officer Joseph Cha as 58-year-old Elias Aceves, who lived near the site with his elderly mother.  Aceves was crossing northbound at 23rd Street when he was struck by a white sedan headed westbound at approximately 9:10 p.m.. He was rushed to the hospital in critical condition. Officials originally stated that he suffered a fractured femur and a fractured arm, but police later confirmed that the victim died from the injuries.

At 9:53 p.m., the Dept. of Public Safety issued a Trojan Alert that said police activity at 23rd Street and Portland Street was underway. Student eyewitnesses reported a backpack, mug and shoes to be found lying in the street at the intersection. According to the LAPD, the man was thrown 70 feet away following the impact. The victim’s shoes were also found on the scene about 20 feet or two bus lengths away from the crossing.

LAPD is currently investigating the crime using surveillance cameras to identify the driver of the vehicle that struck the victim.

A second Trojan Alert was sent to USC students at 11:17 p.m. stating that police activity in the area was still ongoing.

As of 11:30 p.m., 23rd Street from Oak Street to Portland Street still remained closed as the investigation is still taking place. The area was then cleared just before midnight and open to traffic.

Joseph Chen contributed to this report.

Editors Note:

11:57 p.m. This post has been updated to note that the area has reopened for regular operation. 

2:20 a.m. This post has been updated to reflect that the hit and run victim died from his injuries.

2:29 p.m. This post has been updated to note the identity of the pedestrian.