Trina Newman: Retired minister, 61, who raised six foster children killed in hit-and-run on Christmas Eve
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Trina Newman, 61, died on the spot after being struck by a vehicle at around 3.25 pm at 88th Street and South Broadway on Christmas Eve. According to the Los Angeles Police Department, the driver fled the scene.
Newman, a retired minister, mother, and grandmother, who raised six foster children, was dropping off gifts at a community center, according to the Los Angeles Times. The collision occurred at 88th Street and South Broadway as Newman had stepped off the sidewalk and was getting into her car. Amarrie Nicasio, the victim’s daughter, told KTLA, "I was trying to run through the yellow tape to her. I just couldn’t believe what I heard over the phone." And added further, "I still don't believe it. I want to get another phone call from her. It hurts really bad. The day before Christmas. Christmas will never be the same," states ABC 7.
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Family members hope security cameras in the area will help catch the culprit. Talking about the victim, Pastor Kenneth Pitchford, a friend of Newman’s said, "Everybody is heart-stricken for this moment. Words can’t describe what she means to this community.” While the victim's daughter said, "She helped everybody she gave back to the community in every way she could. She’s a good person. Whoever did this needs to step up and turn yourself in." Victim's childhood friend Reed said, "We're all gonna go one day, but to go like this? It's terrible. For a person to not stop and keep going?"
As per DailyMail, the suspect's vehicle has been described as a gray SUV, possibly a Nissan. Anyone with information is asked to call LAPD at 213-833-3746, 877-527-3247 or Crime Stoppers at 800-222-8477.