A 80-year-old woman was killed by an unidentified motorist while crossing a street earlier this week. The deceased, Celia Rivera of Sylmar was crossing Hubbard Street when she met her death.

According to the Los Angeles Police Department, the accident occurred on the southeast side of the street, within walking distance of the Dronfield intersection at about 6:50 p.m on Wednesday, February 26. The accident victim was pronounced dead at the spot.

LAPD combed the Sylmar area on Thursday, in search of the motorist. While authorities are yet to positively identify the hit-and-run driver, investigation suggests the hit-and-run driver was driving a white Ford Mustang when he hit the older woman and then fled the scene.

Eyewitnesses and anyone with relevant information should contact the authorities — 877-LAPD-247.

The driver could face criminal charges when found, with the risks of doing jail time and paying steep fines. In California, hit and run can be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the severity of the injury.

It is a misdemeanor if the accident only causes property damage and/or minor bodily injury. Possible punishment for property damage includes 6-month jail time, $100 fine, and 3-year summary probation.

The punishment increases to 1-year jail time and/or a $10,000 fine if there is a proven case of minor bodily injury.

Hit-and-run becomes a felony where the accident results in severe injury or death. Its penalty includes 4-year jail time and/or a $10,000 fine.

If you are involved in a hit-and-run accident, contact your insurance company and a reputable attorney at once.

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