Investigators search for driver who hit, killed fire recruit on 101 Freeway
Authorities are working with limited information as they try to find the driver who fatally struck a Los Angeles Fire Department recruit who was involved in an accident on the 101 Freeway on Monday.
Jacob Fuerte, 22, was driving to the LAFD training academy when, according to the California Highway Patrol, his vehicle collided with another on the northbound 101 near Vineland Avenue shortly after 5 a.m.
One person was ejected, and officials said Fuerte, the son of a veteran LAFD firefighter, stepped out of his vehicle, likely to assess the situation and render aid, when a second crash took place.
“During this second crash, [Fuerte] was struck,” the CHP said in its accident report.
Los Angeles Fire Department recruit Jacob Fuerte, 22 (LAFD) A U.S. Flag is draped over the body of a Los Angeles Fire Department recruit firefighter who was killed on the 101 Freeway on April 15, 2024. (KTLA) Preliminary information indicates the crash took place around 5:20 a.m. on the northbound side of the 101 at Lankershim Boulevard in Studio City on April 15, 2024. (Sky5)
The driver of the vehicle that hit Fuerte fled the scene.
A CHP source tells KTLA 5 News that investigators believe the vehicle is a dark-colored SUV or van with an unknown make and model.
In her State of the City address Monday evening, L.A. Mayor Karen Bass paid tribute to Fuerte and ordered city flags fly at half-staff.
“My heart goes out to the family during this difficult time,” Bass said.
Anyone with information about the crash is urged to call CHP’s West Valley office at 818-888-0980.
For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA.
