By Crash News Writer 
Chatsworth, CA (October 21, 2026) – A man believed to be in his 60s was killed after a dark-colored SUV struck him in a marked crosswalk at De Soto Avenue and Lassen Street in Chatsworth early Sunday morning, October 18. The fatal hit-and-run occurred around 12:39 a.m.
According to the California Highway Patrol, the agency responsible for highway safety and traffic enforcement throughout California, fatal collisions may require extensive investigations to establish what happened. The Los Angeles Police Department is investigating this particular incident.
LAPD reported that the pedestrian was crossing the intersection when a dark-colored SUV, possibly a black BMW, struck him while traveling southbound on De Soto Avenue.
Police said the driver briefly stopped along the curb south of Lassen Street before continuing southbound without identifying themselves or providing assistance. Investigators described the driver as possibly male but did not release additional identifying information.
Los Angeles Fire Department paramedics responded to the scene and pronounced the pedestrian dead. His identity was withheld pending notification of relatives.
Valley Traffic Division detectives are investigating the collision. A reward of up to $50,000 may be available for information that helps identify and locate the driver under the city’s Hit-and-Run Reward Program.
Anyone with information can contact Officer Lozon at 818-644-8117 or Officer Reyes at 818-644-8114. Anonymous tips can be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 800-222-TIPS.
Protect Your Rights After a Fatal Accident Today
Fatal pedestrian accidents can leave families facing unexpected financial burdens while dealing with the loss of a loved one. Funeral expenses, lost financial support, and other damages may create additional hardships, particularly when the responsible driver leaves the scene.
Understanding the car accident laws in California can help surviving relatives learn about their legal rights. California allows certain eligible family members to pursue wrongful death claims when another party’s negligence or wrongful conduct causes a fatality.
Families searching for a car accident near me may benefit from preserving available evidence, including witness information, surveillance footage, police records, and communications with investigators.
A car accident report can provide important information about the collision, including the location, responding officers, and available witness statements. Obtaining a car accident report may also help families understand the circumstances documented by authorities.
Those researching a car accident near Chatsworth should know that hit-and-run investigations can involve additional insurance and liability questions when the driver has not been identified.
Whether you are looking for information about a car accident near me or seeking legal assistance following a car accident near Chatsworth, consulting an attorney can help clarify wrongful death claims, insurance options, and applicable filing deadlines.
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE
This article is based on preliminary information released by the Los Angeles Police Department and reported on October 18, 2026. The investigation remains active, and additional findings may become available.
- The deceased pedestrian was believed to be in his 60s. His identity has not been publicly released in the available report.
- Investigators are searching for a dark-colored SUV, possibly a black BMW, that was traveling southbound on De Soto Avenue.
- A reward of up to $50,000 may be available for qualifying information under Los Angeles’ Hit-and-Run Reward Program.
- Readers seeking guidance about accident investigations and wrongful death claims can review frequently asked questions in California.
Families affected by fatal collisions can also explore accident resources in California for information about victim assistance, legal procedures, and available support.
This article is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or medical advice. Information is based on publicly available reports and may change as investigators release additional findings. Readers should consult qualified professionals regarding their individual circumstances. The publisher assumes no responsibility for decisions made based on this information. Please review our disclaimer for additional details.
If your family lost a loved one in a pedestrian accident, contact a California personal injury lawyer as soon as possible to discuss your rights and potential legal options.