WHITTIER >> Police are seeking a driver who fatally struck a 69-year-old Whittier man who was out for a morning walk on Wednesday, then fled the scene, officials said.
Kenneth Rawlings died after he was struck by a vehicle about 7:30 a.m. in the 16800 block of Janine Drive, just west of Macy Street, Whittier police Officer John Scoggins said.
“The victim had been walking down Janine (Drive) when he was struck by the vehicle,” Scoggins said.
Paramedics took the injured man to Whittier Hospital, where Scoggins said he succumbed to his injuries hours later.
“We don’t have any direct witnesses at this point,” Scoggins said.
A black Toyota Prius, “or similar-type vehicle,” was seen driving west along Janine Drive at high speed around the time of the deadly crash, according to Scoggins. Police had yet to determine whether that vehicle was involved in the collision, but wanted to speak with the driver to find out what information he or she may have.
The victim lives near the crash scene and was out for a morning walk when he was struck, Scoggins said.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Whittier police Officer Richard Jensen at 562-567-9261. The Whittier Police Department’s 24-hour tip line can be reached at 562-567-9299.