Girl Killed, Younger Sister Critically Injured in South Los Angeles Pedestrian Accident

Marlene Lorenzo, 14, was killed and her younger sister, Amy Lorenzo, 12, was critically injured in a pedestrian accident in South Los Angeles after they were struck by a large truck that was making a turn at an intersection. According to a KTLA news report, the fatal accident occurred on the morning of April 4 at the intersection of Broadway Place and 37th Street. The truck was making a turn north onto Broadway Place from 37th Street when it struck the girls. The sisters were walking near a middle school.

Tragic Collision

Officers responded to the scene and transported the two girls to a hospital where Marlene was pronounced dead. After being struck, the girls were lodged under the truck and dragged, officials said. The truck driver told police he “felt a bump,” stopped his vehicle and found that he had hit the two girls. The truck driver appeared distressed as he spoke to police, the KTLA report said. Police said even though criminal activity was not suspected, the driver might face charges. Drugs and alcohol didn’t seem to be factors in the collision, officials said. A GoFundMe page was set up to raise money for the girls’ family.

We offer our deepest condolences to the family members of these young girls for their tragic and heartbreaking loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with them and the younger sister, Amy, who is apparently critically injured. We wish her the best for a quick and full recovery.

Fault and Liability

Based on this news report, officials are still looking into what caused the truck driver to hit the two girls. Was he distracted or inattentive? Did he fail to yield the right of way to the pedestrians who were walking at the intersection? We trust officials are trying to determine precisely what caused this tragic pedestrian accident. They are probably also talking to witnesses to determine whether the truck driver was negligent.

In this particular case, both the truck driver and his employer may be held financially responsible for the injuries, damages and losses caused. This is regardless of whether criminal charges are filed in this case. Injured victims and their families in such cases would be well advised to contact an experienced Los Angeles pedestrian accident lawyer who will stay abreast of the official investigation and help ensure that their legal rights and best interests are protected.

Source: https://ktla.com/2019/04/04/2-sisters-in-critical-condition-after-being-struck-by-truck-while-walking-to-middle-school-in-south-l-a/