Teen Cyclist Struck in Suspected Intentional Hit-and-Run in South LA

Authorities are searching for a driver who struck a 15-year-old bicyclist in South Los Angeles in what the family fears may have been an intentional act. The incident, which occurred on April 7 near the intersection of Nadeau Street and Croesus Avenue, has raised safety concerns among residents in South LA communities.

According to surveillance footage of the incident, a black BMW turned onto the sidewalk where Sebastian Carrillo was riding his bicycle home from school around 3:30 p.m. The vehicle struck the teenager, paused momentarily, and then fled the scene as witnesses attempted to pursue the car.

The 15-year-old was transported to the hospital with injuries including a concussion and lacerations requiring stitches. His father, Eric Carrillo, expressed deep concern about the nature of the incident.

“To me, it looks like attempted murder,” Carrillo told FOX 11. “It could have been worse.”

This incident follows several other hit-and-run cases in the greater Los Angeles area in recent weeks, highlighting ongoing concerns about traffic safety that affect residents in Inglewood, Compton, and neighboring communities. For families with children who bike or walk to school across South LA, including many Inglewood and Compton students, the incident raises alarm about pedestrian and cyclist safety.

The California Highway Patrol is leading the investigation and searching for what they describe as a “newer black BMW,” possibly a 2025 model, which would now have front-end damage. Investigators are working to determine whether the collision was intentional, noting that the vehicle clearly left the roadway before striking the teen.

Surveillance images show multiple passengers were in the vehicle at the time of the collision. Carrillo appealed directly to them and the driver: “Just turn yourself in. Don’t make this worse for him.”

For South LA, Inglewood, and Compton residents with information about this incident, authorities encourage contacting the California Highway Patrol. Local safety advocates also recommend that families review safe biking routes with children who commute to school and consider traveling in groups when possible.

This story draws on reporting by Matthew Seedorff for FOX 11 Los Angeles.