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WEST ATHENS, Los Angeles County, Calif., Oct. 31, 2026 — A bicyclist was struck by a vehicle on Friday morning, October 30, at the intersection of W 120th St and S Western Ave, according to the California Highway Patrol. The driver reportedly fled the scene after the crash.
The collision was called in to the California Highway Patrol shortly before 10:49 a.m. Friday. Dispatch logs describe the vehicle involved as a black Mercedes-Benz that struck a pedestrian riding a bicycle. The driver did not stay at the scene, and the vehicle's whereabouts had not been confirmed as of the time of this report.
Fire crews were dispatched to the intersection to evaluate the bicyclist. The extent of any injuries has not been confirmed so far. Local sheriff's personnel at the scene requested CHP assistance with the response, and the California Highway Patrol is handling the investigation into the crash and the search for the driver.
No description of the fleeing vehicle beyond its color and make has been released. Anyone with information about the crash or the vehicle involved has not yet been publicly asked to come forward, though that could change as the investigation continues.
We are hoping for the best for everyone involved and their families.
Intersection Crashes in California
This bicycle crash happened at W 120th St and S Western Ave in West Athens, CA. Our California intersections page covers intersection crashes across California.
Frequently Asked Questions
What injuries are most common when a bicyclist is hit by a vehicle?
Bicyclists struck by vehicles frequently suffer fractures, head injuries, and road rash from being thrown from the bike. The severity usually depends on the vehicle's speed and the angle of impact.
What typically causes crashes between vehicles and bicyclists at intersections?
Many intersection crashes involving bicyclists stem from a driver failing to yield, running a stop sign or red light, or not seeing a cyclist before turning. Poor visibility and distracted driving are also common factors.
Why do hit-and-run drivers flee the scene?
Drivers may flee out of fear of legal consequences, because they lack a valid license or insurance, or due to impairment. Fleeing the scene of a crash involving injury is a separate offense investigators pursue on top of the crash itself.
Where do most vehicle-versus-bicyclist crashes happen?
These crashes are most common at intersections and along roads without protected bike lanes, where cyclists and turning or crossing vehicles share limited space.
