A pedestrian was found dead in South Los Angeles early Wednesday after a hit-and-run driver struck and killed him, according to the Los Angeles Police Department.
The victim was identified as 47-year old Los Angeles resident Von Dedric Miles, whose mother lives in the area of the crash, officials said.
The initial report involved a possible gunshot wound victim on the ground near 120th and Figueroa streets about 12:40 a.m., but when police arrived they discovered the man was a hit-and-run crash victim.
Officials said they haven't figured out whether Miles was standing or walking in the middle of the street at the time of the crash.
Police also said despite Miles having an arrest record, he was clearly the victim in this crash. He died at the scene.
The crash happened across from an apartment complex, and police are urging any witnesses to come forward.
"I heard a thump," one resident said. "Crazy things happen on Figueroa. It was a shame, though. Another guy lost his life."
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Police said they don't know whether a car or truck struck Miles, or if more vehicles hit him after the initial crash. No debris from the car was found at the scene.
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"It's very unlikely that the person who hit this individual would not know that they hit someone," LAPD Detective Jimmy Render said. "The damages to the responsible vehicle that did this would probably have some front end damage, maybe even windshield damage, something within the front portion of the vehicle."
The car may also have blood stains on it, Render said.
