Hit-and-run driver strikes family, killing teen and leaving toddler on life support

A driver in Los Angeles struck a car carrying four relatives, killing a teenager and leaving a toddler on life support before speeding away. Police are now searching for the alleged suspect.

A Mercedes driver ran a red light on Jan. 9 and hit Chris Amaya-Pineda, 13, and his family as they were going to their grandmother’s house.

According to CBS, the driver at fault fled the scene after his car caught fire and did not stop, police said.

During an interview with Fox 11, a witness claimed she spoke with the driver before he vanished. She described her conversation with the driver, saying “He’s like, ‘I killed them kids? I killed them?’ and I said ‘Yes.'”

Rescue crews worked to free the teenager, his 2-year-old brother, Damian, as well as his 16-year-old sister and his 35-year-old mother, Debbie, from the damage of the collision.

According to a GoFundMe campaign launched for the family’s funeral and medical expenses, Chris died in the hospita. Damian remained in “grave condition”.

“If there is a miracle for [Damian] to wake up, he’ll be paralyzed,” said the toddler’s aunt, Julie Amaya, to CBS News.

Loved ones said Debbie will have to undergo several surgeries before she can go home. Her teen daughter suffered minor injuries in the crash.

Their loss has left them seeking support from the community. The children’s father was also at work at the time of the crash, which has been particularly difficult for him.

Investigators are still seeking the suspect and are asking anyone with information on the crash to contact LAPD or submit an anonymous tip to CrimeStoppers.