Los Angeles police on Monday were seeking the public’s help in identifying a mother who was struck and killed by a vehicle on Christmas Eve while delivering gifts to a local shelter with her children.
The crash occurred about 3:25 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 24 at Broadway and 88th street. The victim was identified by the Los Angeles County coroner’s office as a pedestrian, Trina Newman-Townsend, 62, of Los Angeles.
Newman-Townsend was returning to her vehicle after dropping off presents at a local children’s shelter when she was struck by a blue mid-size sedan traveling north on South Broadway, according to a Los Angeles Police Department news release.
Newman-Townsend was pronounced dead at the scene, according to Officer Matthew Cruz of the Los Angeles Police Department.
The driver of the vehicle that struck Newman-Townsend did not stop, according to police.
The blue sedan that struck Newman-Townsend sustained major front passenger side damage. A reward of up to $50,000 is available to anyone who can provide information leading to the offender’s identification, apprehension, and conviction, or resolution through a civil compromise. according to police.
Newman-Townsend was also a grandmother and community activist who helped raise foster children, Cruz said.
Anyone who may have witnessed the accident or have information regarding the collision is asked to contact South Traffic Division Detective Geitheim or Officer Hurd at: 213-713-9579.
During non-business hours or on weekends, calls can be directed to 1-877-527-3247. Anyone wishing to remain anonymous can call LA Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or go directly to www.lacrimestoppers.org.
Tips can also be fielded at www.lapdonline.org by clicking on the “Anonymous Web Tips” link under the “Get Involved-Crime Stoppers” menu.
Lastly, tipsters may also download the “P3 Tips” mobile application and select the LA Regional Crime Stoppers as their local program.
City News Service contributed to this report