Los Angeles, CA (February 27, 2026) – A pedestrian was killed in an early-morning collision on Thursday, February 26, at approximately 2:10 a.m. near the intersection of 9th Street and Towne Avenue in downtown Los Angeles.
According to the Los Angeles Police Department, responding officers arrived at the scene and located the victim, a 37-year-old pedestrian, who had sustained fatal injuries after being struck by a vehicle. The pedestrian was pronounced dead at the scene by Los Angeles city firefighters.
Authorities reported that 22-year-old Orlando Larios was driving a red Nissan Kicks eastbound in the westbound lanes of Ninth Street when he struck a pedestrian walking south on Ninth Street. The circumstances leading up to the collision are under investigation by the LAPD Central Traffic Division.
We extend our sincere condolences to the victim’s family and loved ones during this difficult time.
What Compensation Can Families Pursue After a Pedestrian Wrongful Death in Los Angeles?
Losing a loved one in a pedestrian accident is a tragic and life-changing event. In Los Angeles, families who experience such a loss may be entitled to pursue a wrongful death claim to recover compensation for the financial and emotional impacts of the accident.
Under California law, a wrongful death claim allows certain surviving family members, typically spouses, domestic partners, children, and sometimes other heirs, to seek damages when a loved one is fatally injured due to someone else’s negligence or unlawful actions. In pedestrian cases, the at-fault driver is usually financially responsible for covering costs related to the accident.
Compensation can include medical expenses incurred before death, funeral and burial costs, and the loss of financial support the deceased would have provided. Families may also pursue damages for non-economic losses, such as the loss of companionship, guidance, emotional support, and the impact on quality of life.
In Los Angeles, many pedestrian fatalities involve factors like alcohol impairment, speeding, or unsafe driving behaviors. Insurance companies typically investigate these claims thoroughly, reviewing police reports, witness statements, and accident reconstruction data. Families pursuing a claim must document the accident carefully, including medical bills, correspondence with insurers, and records of ongoing financial or emotional impact.
If the at-fault driver lacks sufficient insurance, additional coverage may exist, such as uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage. Legal guidance is crucial to navigate these options effectively and ensure the family receives fair compensation.
Given the complexity of wrongful death claims, working with a wrongful death attorney can help families understand their rights, file claims correctly, and advocate for full compensation. Attorneys can assist in negotiating with insurance companies, evaluating damages, and ensuring that families are not left to handle the process alone.
For families impacted by a fatal pedestrian accident in Los Angeles, seeking professional legal support can provide clarity and peace of mind during an incredibly difficult time. To discuss your case and explore your options, contact Saleh Law Group at (949) 431-6371.
