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Hit-and-Run Driver Takes Life of Special Needs Teen

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The Los Angeles Police Department is asking for the public's help in identifying and locating a hit-and-run driver who took the life of a special needs teen who was crossing a South L.A. street.

The incident took place at around 7 p.m. on November 17, when a motorist in a late-model Plymouth Town and Country van was traveling south on Broadway from Century Boulevard and hit a pedestrian who was attempting to cross the street on Broadway, according to the LAPD.

After striking the young man, later identified as 18-year-old Miguel Mendez, the driver fled the scene without stopping to render aid.

Mendez, a student Bannerker Special Education Center for children with special needs, was rushed to the hospital where he succumbed to his injuries.

Detectives say they have few leads in the fatal hit-and-run. Anyone with any information about the driver is asked to contact the LAPD.

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