On Tuesday, February 15, 2011 at 7:15 AM, 2 Companies of Los Angeles Firefighters, 1 LAFD Rescue Ambulance, under the direction of Captain I I S. Franco responded to a Auto vs. Pedestrian at 5017 E Novgorod St. in El Sereno.

Firefighters arrived to discover a 46 year old male who had apparently been lying in the alleyway against a residential garage door. A 50 year old female driver, attempting to drive out of the garage, was unaware of the man’s presences and unfortunately drove over the individual. The woman who was very distraught thought it was some type of normal deterrent enabling the car to move and went into a reverse direction, pinning the man. She immediately called for help from bystanders, who then contacted 9-1-1.

Despite the prompt work of LAFD Firefighter/Paramedics, the man was beyond any medical help and was declared deceased at the scene.

The Los Angeles Police Department will be investigating the circumstances surrounding the entire incident. The time and official manner of his death will be determined by the Los Angeles County Coroner's Office.

Although this is a tragic accident, this type of incident is a reminder to us all of the need to take special precautions as to the area around any vehicle just prior to operation.

Submitted by Devin Gales, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department