Roxanne Stempien has been identified by authorities as the deceased in a pedestrian collision and alleged hit-and-run that occurred in Hawthorne on July 14. Ms. Stempian, a 40-year-old local resident, and a male who has not been named, were reportedly crossing Prairie Avenue inside a crosswalk shortly before 1:45 a.m. when they were both hit by a vehicle which left the scene. Ms. Stempian tragically perished at the scene from her injuries. The man was hospitalized. Authorities located the vehicle that was allegedly involved which had sustained damage on its front section. The owner of vehicle, a 42-year-old Hawthorne local named Richard Marlin Merritt is facing multiple charges including DUI, hit-and-run, and manslaughter.

We extend our deepest condolences to the friends and family of the deceased during this difficult time.

When individuals are harmed or killed in traffic accidents and another party is at fault, full compensation is not always granted, despite the circumstances. Skilled legal representation from a car accident attorney is typically a must in these situations. Legal Defenders at the Law Offices of Burg and Brock has helped countless families and individuals obtain the compensation they need to deal with expenses and move on with their lives. To learn more, call us today at (818) 405-9091.