The community in Highland Park is still mourning the loss of a skateboarder who was struck and killed by an LAPD cruiser last September 20, 2025.
Friends, family, and neighbors gathered over the weekend to hold a vigil at Figueroa Street and Sycamore Grove Park, leaving candles, flowers, and pictures in memory of the man, known online and to his friends as Jerry.
As we previously reported, the incident occurred around 7 p.m., when Jerry was riding his skateboard in the median of Figueroa Street. An LAPD patrol vehicle, responding to a call with lights and sirens on, was traveling north in the median at the same time. The collision happened in full view of a carnival happening at the nearby park.
In the aftermath of the crash, many in the community expressed anger and frustration, especially after learning that the officers involved would face no charges. Police officials have described the crash as a “tragic accident” and said their investigation found the officers were not driving at an excessive speed. The department noted that officers often use the median to move past traffic when responding to calls.
Friends and neighbors at the vigil said the decision not to charge anyone has left them feeling unheard and ignored. Many recalled Jerry as someone who loved skating and brought positivity to the local skateboarding scene. “He was always out here with a smile and ready to help anyone,” said one friend. “It hurts that he’s gone and that the people responsible are not being held accountable.”
Social media posts also show widespread disappointment, with residents questioning how safety is enforced and how emergency vehicles are operated in busy neighborhoods. Advocates have called for better protocols and more transparency in incidents involving police vehicles, especially in areas where pedestrians and skateboarders are common.
Despite the grief and anger, community members said the vigil was a chance to come together and support one another. They hope Jerry’s death will spark conversation about safety, accountability, and the way the city handles incidents that involve law enforcement.
The LAPD continues to stand by their account of the events, while the family and local residents continue to call for answers and changes to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
This is a developing story, and we will continue to follow the situation closely. As additional details become available or new information is confirmed, we will update this article to provide the latest facts and context to our readers.