CEO of event planning firm among 2 pedestrians killed in Santa Monica hit-and-run

SANTA MONICA — Police Saturday were seeking a motorist who allegedly drove onto a sidewalk in Santa Monica, killing two people and injuring two others before fleeing the scene on foot.

Officers responded at 9:15 p.m. Friday to the 1300 block of Wilshire Boulevard, where they located four victims on the south sidewalk, according to the Santa Monica Police Department.

Two people were rushed to a hospital, where they were expected to survive their injuries. Paramedics also pronounced two people dead at the crash scene, SMPD Lt. Lewis Gilmour said.

CBS Los Angeles reported that one victim was confirmed by the Medical Examiner’s office as 61-year-old Brad Lipshy, the CEO of a Santa Monica event planning firm. A woman in her 60s was also killed, the station said. Her name has not yet been released.

“Preliminary information indicates the involved vehicle was traveling westbound in the eastbound lanes of Wilshire Boulevard when it drove onto the sidewalk and struck the four pedestrians,” Gilmour said.

“The involved vehicle remained at the scene; however, the driver fled on foot prior to officers’ arrival and remains outstanding,” he said.

The suspect was described as a male, approximately 6 feet tall, who was last seen wearing a red hat, a black sweater and black shoes.

“We recognize the gravity of this tragedy and the impact it has on our community,” Interim Santa Monica Police Chief Darrick Jacob said. “Our investigators are working tirelessly to identify and locate the suspect responsible, and our hearts are with the families of the victims who are experiencing unimaginable loss.”

Anyone with information regarding the crash was urged to contact police at 310-458-2201, ext. 5311, or the watch commander at 310-458-8327. Callers who wish to remain anonymous may call 1-800-222-8477 or visit lacrimestoppers.org