Police Seeking Witnesses to Fatal Traffic Collision

Los Angeles: Detectives are asking the public’s help in providing any information on a fatal traffic collision that occurred at Coldwater Canyon and Saticoy Street early this morning.

On December 2, 2008, at around 1:05 a.m., a Honda Accord was traveling northbound on Coldwater Canyon when it collided with a minivan.  The driver of the Honda Accord was pronounced at the scene by responding Los Angeles Fire Department personnel.

The driver of the Honda was identified as Gustavo Rodriguez, 22, a resident of Pacoima.

The driver of the minivan, a 34-year-old resident of Canoga Park, and his passenger were transported to a local area hospital where they were treated and released for minor injuries.

Valley Traffic detectives’ initial investigation uncovered that the driver of the Honda was not wearing his seat belt, which was a factor in his injuries.  LAPD traffic officers would like to remind everyone to please wear their seat belts (car seats for children) at all times to help prevent severe injury and/or death. 

Anyone with information is urged to Valley Traffic Division Officer Doug Larkin at 818-644-8036 or 818-644-8020.  After-hours and on weekends calls may be directed to the 24-hour, toll-free number, 1-877-LAPD24-7 (527-3247) or texting CRIMES (274637) and beginning the message with LAPD.  Tipsters may also submit information on the LAPD website, and can remain anonymous.