Family, Friends Remember Cyclist Killed in Hit-and-Run

A memorial of flowers, candles and sidewalk condolences written in chalk surround the Valley Glen corner where David Alexander Granados was fatally injured by a hit-and-run driver.

The 18-year-old was crossing the street from the northeast corner of Oxnard and Bellaire Avenue when he was struck by a gray or silver Mercedes-Benz on Sunday evening, authorities said. The Los Angeles Police Department is still looking for the driver.

Granados was hospitalized and died Tuesday around 5:30 p.m. from his injuries, said Assistant Chief Coroner Ed Winter of the Los Angeles County Department of Coroner.

Granados lived in the neighborhood and was a senior at Ulysses S. Grant High School.

Friend Dena Abdelhamid, 19, lives near the intersection where he was hit and witnessed the accident.

She says Granados occasionally helped her with math homework. Other times, he could often be spotted sporting the same red beanie and riding his bicycle or skateboard.

"He was funny and smart," Abdelhamid said. "He was always telling a joke."

An investigation into the hit-and-run is ongoing and detectives did not return calls for a comment at press time.

Abdelhamid said Granados looked both ways before crossing and had the right of way. He had barely made it onto the street when he was hit by a car heading westbound that ran a red light and was traveling at least 50 miles per hour.

Friends and family, including Granados' teary-eyed big sister, stopped by the memorial Friday afternoon.

Lorena Granados said her younger brother taught her how to skateboard and offered a few other words about him.

"He had a huge heart," Lorena Granados said. "He got along with everyone."

Anyone with more information as to the whereabouts of the driver or the car was asked to call police at the Valley Traffic Division at (818) 644-8063.

A memorial fund has been established for Granados. Click here to learn how to donate.