LOS ANGELES, CA — A devastating collision in Koreatown Thursday night claimed the life of 9-year-old Nadir Gavarreta and left his teenage brother injured, after the two were struck by a recreational vehicle reportedly traveling at a high speed.
According to the Los Angeles Police Department, the crash occurred just before 9:30 p.m. near the intersection of South New Hampshire Avenue and 4th Street. Nadir and his 19-year-old brother were riding together on an e-scooter when a large RV made a turn and struck them both.
Emergency responders pronounced Nadir dead at the scene. His older brother was rushed to a nearby hospital, where he remains in stable condition.
The driver of the RV, identified as 46-year-old Jimmy Pittman, was arrested at the scene on suspicion of driving under the influence. Witnesses described the RV as “flying” down the residential street moments before the impact.
Shortly after the crash, Pittman was seen undergoing a breathalyzer test administered by police officers. He was later booked on DUI charges, and the investigation remains ongoing as authorities work to determine the full circumstances of the collision.
Local residents have expressed outrage and heartbreak over the incident, calling for increased traffic safety measures in the area. The tragic loss of Nadir Gavarreta has sent shockwaves through the community, as neighbors and loved ones mourn the sudden death of a young boy described as full of life and promise.
Anyone with additional information about the incident is urged to contact LAPD Central Traffic Division.