Hit and Run Driver Arrested in Death of Torrance Baseball Star

Police have arrested Darryl Leander Hicks, 28, who they say was the hit-and-run driver in a car accident that killed 16-year-old Jesse Esphorst Jr., a star baseball player at South High School in Torrance. According to a CBS Los Angeles news report, the incident occurred the morning of March 7, 2017 at the intersection of Crenshaw Boulevard and Crest Road. Three vehicles were involved in the crash.

Fatal Hit-and-Run Crash

Hicks was the second man arrested in connection with the death of the teenager. Police arrested Tung Ming, 21, of Rancho Palos Verdes on suspicion of vehicular manslaughter immediately after the collision. Ming remained at the scene, but Hicks fled. Police say Hicks and Ming ran a red light at Crest Road while traveling north on Crenshaw in separate vehicles. Both struck the 2000 Toyota Sienna driven by Jesse’s father as he turned left from southbound Crenshaw onto Crest. Jesse, who was in the passenger seat, died from his injuries and his father remains hospitalized.

Our heartfelt condolences go out to the family members, friends and teammates of Jesse Esphorst for their tragic loss. The article states the teen aspired to play baseball professionally and go to college. Please keep his family in your thoughts and prayers during this very difficult time.

Leaving the Scene of a Crash

Based on this news report, it appears that two drivers ran a red light and struck the victims’ vehicle as it was making a left turn. Running a red light is a violation of the law. While one of the drivers remained at the scene, the other fled. Leaving the scene of a fatal crash is a felony crime under California Vehicle Code Section 20001 (a). The law requires that motorists remain at the scene, exchange pertinent information with all concerned parties and most importantly help obtain assistance for the injured.

Justice for Victims and Families

In cases where negligence or wrongdoing is involved, families of deceased victims can file what is known as a wrongful death claim seeking compensation for medical expenses, funeral costs, lost future income, pain and suffering and loss of love and companionship. Injured victims in such cases can seek damages such as medical expenses, lost wages, hospitalization, cost of rehabilitation, and pain and suffering. Victims or families would be well advised to contact an experienced Los Angeles personal injury lawyer who will fight for their rights and help hold the wrongdoers accountable.