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West Covina Cyclist Killed By Hit And Run Driver

Posted by: on February, 17 2015

Found on sgvtribune.com and written by

WEST COVINA >> A West Covina man who was struck and badly injured by a hit-and-run driver while crossing Francisquito Avenue last month succumbed to his injuries Thursday, officials said. The SUV driver who fled the scene after striking him remains at-large.west covina ghost bike

Emilio Simon, 50, fought for his life at a hospital for nearly two weeks before ultimately succumbing to his injuries, West Covina police Lt. Dennis Patton said.

He was walking his bicycle across the street mid-block when he was struck and severely injured by a westbound SUV about 8:10 p.m. on Jan. 23 on Francisquito Avenue, just west of California Avenue, according to police spokesman Rudy Lopez.

The driver of the SUV, described as a silver, 1997 to 2001 Jeep Grand Cherokee, drove off after striking Simon, police said. It was believed to have sustained damage to the front driver side. It was last seen heading south on Sunset Avenue.

Police released surveillance camera images of the involved SUV in the days following the crash in hopes of generating tips, however the hit-and-run SUV and driver have not been found.

Anyone with information is asked to contact West Covina police at 626-939-8500, or the department’s 24-hour tip hotline at 626-939-8688.