Van Nuys: The Los Angeles Police Department, Valley Traffic Detectives (VTD) are investigating a fatal traffic collision that killed a pedestrian in his 30’s.
On May 4th, 2026, around 10:25 p.m., a White Mercedes was traveling southbound Van Nuys Blvd approaching Sherman Way at an unsafe speed when it hit a pedestrian who was crossing the street within a marked crosswalk. The force of the collision caused the pedestrian to be thrown in a southwest direction before colliding with the roadway. The Mercedes continued northbound Van Nuys Blvd without stopping or rendering aid to the pedestrian.
The Los Angeles Fire Department paramedics responded to the scene and pronounced the pedestrian dead. He was a male in his 30’s. His name has not been released pending notification to his next-of-kin.
Further investigation and follow-ups conducted led to the location of the suspect driver and hit-and-run vehicle. The driver was taken into custody without incident.
The suspect driver was identified as Jose Maranon, 40 years-old, resident of North Hollywood. The investigation revealed that Maranon was driving at an unsafe speed and under the influence. He was arrested and transported to Van Nuys Jail where he was booked for one count of 187(a) PC – Murder. His bail was set at $2,000,000.00 and was given booking No.7233134.
Drivers are reminded not to DRINK AND DRIVE, have a designated driver. Drinking and driving combined with speed kills innocent lives and carries serious consequences.
Anyone with information about this collision is asked to contact Valley Traffic Division Detective Barragan at (818) 644-8028 or Officer Freeman at (818) 644-8115. During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (877-527-3247). Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call CrimeStoppers at 800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477). Tipsters may also contact CrimeStoppers by texting to phone number 274637 (C-R-I-M-E-S on most keypads) with a cell phone. All text messages should begin with the letters “LAPD.” Tipsters may also go to LAPDOnline.org, click on “webtips” and follow the prompts.