UPDATED: 4/20 @ 4:58 p.m.
During the course of this hit and run fatality investigation, traffic accident investigators have spent much of their time canvassing the crime scene for evidence, surveillance footage and witnesses. Based on all the information they gathered and with the use of investigative resources, the Glendale Police Department located a vehicle in which they believe is the suspect vehicle. That vehicle is now in police custody and is being forensically processed for evidence, including DNA.
Investigators have also identified a person of interest, although an arrest has not been made at this time. The result of this investigation was not produced by tips from the public; however the Glendale Police Department is continuing to seek the assistance of anyone who may have witnessed the incident.
ORIGINAL
On the evening of April 16th at roughly 8 p.m., 81-year old Glendale resident Martiros Arutyunyan was fatally struck by a speeding car while legally crossing the street from Broadway to Belmont. The vehicle was a white sedan that promptly fled the scene after the collision. To support the ongoing investigation of this tragedy, the City of Glendale is formally offering a $50,000 reward to anyone with information concerning the identity of the car and driver responsible for this hit-and-run action.
Glendale detectives have released video surveillance footage of the incident.
The white sedan is believed to have potentially sustained frontal damage to its headlights, bumper, hood, and windshield. If you or anyone you know possesses information regarding this case, we recommend you call 818-548-4911. Those wishing to remain anonymous may call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
Glendale Chief of Police Robert Castro is confident the reward offer will play a vital role in identifying the driver.
“We are hopeful with the reward being offered that someone will come forward and provide information that will assist detectives with identifying the driver of this vehicle,” said Castro. “Responsible driving behavior and defensive driving are actions that are vital to avoid a tragedy such as this one.”
Glendale Mayor Paula Devine echoes those sentiments.
"This is a tragic event. I am deeply saddened by this loss and express my sincere condolences to the family,” stated Devine. “It is my hope and that of the entire city council, that this offer of a reward will help bring this hit and run driver to justice."
The City of Glendale recently approved an ordinance establishing a procedure for the city manager to offer and approve the payment of a reward in the occurrence of serious crime. The staff report can be viewed here.