UPDATE: A heartbreaking tragedy unfolds in Venice as family and friends mourn the loss of 25-year-old Neo Moroke, a recent Cal State Northridge graduate, who was fatally struck in a hit-and-run early on September 20, 2023. The incident occurred around 2 a.m. at the intersection of Washington Boulevard and Lincoln Boulevard, just days before what would have been Moroke’s birthday.
The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) reported that Moroke was crossing the street when he was hit by a vehicle that fled the scene, leaving him in critical condition. He was transported to a local hospital, where he was pronounced dead shortly thereafter, according to LAPD Media Relations.
Moroke’s father, Douglas Moroke, expressed his devastation in a recent interview, revealing the profound emptiness left in the wake of his son’s untimely death. “He was my life, my hope, my inspiration,” Douglas shared with KTLA. “I just hope the person that did it can find themselves to have a moral conscience to come and say something.”
In a tragic twist, Neo had left home that night to meet friends, saying, “Hey Dad, I’ll see you later,” a farewell they shared every time. Now, family and friends have created a memorial outside the Moroke home, where Douglas sits each night, grappling with the loss.
Despite the busy intersection, investigators have yet to identify the suspect’s vehicle. A witness reported seeing a blue SUV, possibly driven by a woman, fleeing the scene, but this detail remains unconfirmed by police. Investigators are urging anyone with information related to the incident to come forward.
“Do the right thing. This child had a future ahead of him,” Douglas Moroke urged, calling on the driver to accept responsibility.
The LAPD continues to seek leads in this developing case, emphasizing the urgency of locating the responsible party. As the community rallies around the Moroke family, the impact of this tragedy resonates widely, raising questions about road safety and accountability.
Authorities are asking anyone who may have witnessed the event or has details about the vehicle to contact the LAPD immediately. With family and friends desperate for answers, the hope remains that justice will soon be served for Neo Moroke.
This ongoing situation highlights the importance of community support and the urgent need for information, as the Moroke family continues to cope with their unimaginable loss.