(Thechieftainspear) – The City of Downey is now the subject of a lawsuit after a pedestrian was fatally struck in a hit-and-run incident last October, allegedly involving an on-duty Downey Police Department officer.
The victim, 49-year-old Raymond Lavalle, was hit on the night of Oct. 2, 2024, while walking along Cedardale Drive in Santa Fe Springs. Lavalle, who lived in an encampment along the San Gabriel River Trail, suffered fatal injuries, including severe chest trauma and abrasions, according to initial reports by the Whittier Police Department.
At the time, the driver’s identity was unknown, but Lavalle’s family now alleges that the vehicle was driven by a Downey officer who was actively working when the collision occurred. Attorneys representing the family claim the officer failed to stop and render aid, which is both a legal obligation and a requirement under department protocol.
“This was not just an accident—it was a failure of duty and a betrayal of public trust,” said attorney Michael Carrillo during a press conference. “The officer struck Mr. Lavalle and left the scene, and the family had to uncover these facts on their own after months of silence from the department.”
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Carrillo also accused the Downey Police Department of withholding information from the public and Lavalle’s relatives, alleging a lack of transparency and no public acknowledgement of the officer’s involvement.
City officials later confirmed to KTLA that a Downey officer was in fact involved in the incident. However, they stated that the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office had reviewed the case and declined to pursue criminal charges based on findings from the Whittier Police Department.
In a statement, the city described the event as a “tragic accident,” saying it occurred at low speed in a poorly lit area while the officer was attempting to locate a fleeing suspect. The statement claims the officer turned south from Telegraph Road into an access point along the San Gabriel River Trail and inadvertently struck Lavalle, who was reportedly seated in the roadway. Officials also said the officer did not realize a collision had occurred.
The city expressed condolences, stating, “The Downey Police Department extends its deepest sympathies to the victim’s family and friends during this difficult time.”
Despite those remarks, Lavalle’s family is pushing forward with legal action, seeking accountability and justice for what they believe was a preventable and mishandled tragedy.
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