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A bicyclist was killed after attempting to stop a hit-and-run driver responsible for injuring another cyclist in Long Beach.
The victim was flung into the ground after he attempted to stop a 2000 Ford Expedition who previously struck his friend as they were cycling together, according to officials.
Authorities responded to a call regarding the hit-and-run at 1:20 a.m. When they arrived to the scene, the victim was found laying on the ground.
The bicyclist grabbed onto the vehicle's running boards, hoping to stop the driver, but was killed after being thrown off near the intersection of Long Beach Boulevard and Bort Street.
Friends and family of the victim held a vigil for him Monday in his memory. They are hoping officials will find the driver responsible for the hit-and-run.
"I want to tell you it was a cowardly act that you did," Luis Cortes, the victim's friend, said of the driver. "Turn yourself in."
The victim, only described as a 51-year-old Los Angeles man, was in a bicycle club that was dedicated to improving the community.
"You didn't just break someone's heart, you didn't just take someone's life, but you broke the world's heart because this man was loved by many," Cortes said.
Officials said they believe they found the SUV abandoned on the west service road of Long Beach Boulevard and West Adams Street. They believe the driver fled the scene then abandoned the vehicle and resumed to flee on foot.
Anyone with information regarding the fatal hit-and-run is encouraged to contact Detective Brian Watt at 562-570-7355. Those who would like to submit an anonymous tip can contact Crime Stoppers at 800-222-TIPS.