Accident Remembered

By Jennifer Eden

Three bright red heart balloons blow in the Thursday morning breeze on Main Street, Santa Monica, a silent reminder of the tragic accident that occurred Tuesday afternoon that claimed the life of an innocent 40-year-old man.

According to the Santa Monica Police Department (SMPD), at about 3.30 p.m., March 21, a speeding vehicle careered from 4th Street westbound through the Civic parking lot, hitting a pedestrian standing at a pay parking booth in the lot.

“Officers discovered the victim on Main Street and was unresponsive with critical injuries,” according to SMPD. “The victim was treated at the scene by Santa Monica Fire Department Paramedics for his injuries. The victim was transported to a local hospital for treatment. Unfortunately, the victim succumbed to his injuries.”

The speeding vehicle continued across Main Street and struck a parked car when the driver fled the location, only to be apprehended by police at the 300 block of Pico Boulevard.

“The suspect was taken into custody following a struggle with officers,” SMPD said in a statement. “The suspect has been identified as Absadi Kidane, a 21-year old male.”

Kidane has been booked for 187(a) PC–Homicide;192(c)(1) PC-Vehicular Manslaughter; 191.5 PC-Vehicular Manslaughter while Intoxicated; 23153(a) CVC –Felony Driving Under the Influence; 20001(a) CVC-Felony Hit and Run; and 69 PC- Forcibly Resisting Arrest. Kidane remains at SMPD Jail with a bail of $2 million. The case will be presented to Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office – Airport Division for filing consideration.

The investigation is ongoing and investigators are interested in speaking with anyone who was in the area near the time of the collision. Anyone with additional information is asked to contact Investigator Olson at 310.458.8954; Sergeant J. Cortez 310.458-8713 or the Santa Monica Police Department at 310.458.8491.