Hit-and-run driver kills Santa Monica woman and flees scene

In a tragic hit-and-run incident that occurred in Santa Monica, California, a Vietnam War veteran lost her life on Sunday, December 22, 2024. The victim was crossing Wilshire Boulevard headed south at approximately 6:40 p.m. when she was struck by a white Toyota Rav4, which was traveling eastbound. Eyewitnesses reported that the driver fled the scene at a high rate of speed. Emergency responders arrived promptly but pronounced the victim dead at the scene, leaving the local community in shock over the incident. Following the incident, the Santa Monica Police Department launched an extensive investigation to identify the driver responsible for the tragedy. Witnesses provided accounts of the vehicle speeding away from the scene, and local authorities released photos and video footage in an appeal for public assistance to find the suspect. Their efforts bore fruit after several days when investigators identified a 30-year-old man from Los Angeles named Rod Sharif as the alleged driver. On December 27, police executed search and arrest warrants at Sharif's residence in Santa Monica Canyon, where they recovered several items of evidence, including the damaged white Toyota Rav4 linked to the hit-and-run. This vehicle had significant front-end damage consistent with an accident. Moreover, authorities noted that Sharif had past arrests related to driving under the influence and reckless driving, raising concerns about his driving history. The victim, whose identity as a resident and veteran was made public, represents a significant loss to the community. Local police are encouraging anyone with further information to reach out to their investigators. This incident underscores the issue of hit-and-run crimes and the critical need for accountability in cases involving reckless driving that endangers the lives of pedestrians.