FLORENCE, CA – A serious incident occurred on April 19, 2024, as a result of inadequate safety measures at a Los Angeles intersection, leading to the death of a young pedestrian. Thirteen-year-old Derick Serrano was tragically struck by a vehicle while returning home from school.
The accident took place at the junction of Wadsworth and East Vernon avenues near Florence and has since then sparked calls for significant safety improvements in the area. The victim, who attended George Washington Carver Middle School, succumbed to his injuries shortly after the incident.
Community activists have emphasized the absence of a crosswalk, crossing guard, traffic signal, or any relevant signage at the intersection, demanding action to prevent future tragedies. Local law enforcement has launched a full-scale investigation into the factors contributing to the accident.
Statistics from the Governors Highway Safety Association indicate a disturbing rise in pedestrian accidents, mirroring the concerns of the Florence community. Similarly, data from the California Office of Traffic Safety reveals that pedestrian fatalities on California roadways had increased by 26% from 2014 to 2018, reaching a number of nearly 900 deaths.
