A 17-year-old soccer star riding a bicycle was killed Wednesday night when he was struck from behind by a Toyota Camry or Corolla that then fled the scene, authorities said Thursday.
German Alex Romero and a friend, also 17, were riding bicycles northbound on De Soto Avenue near Valerio Street in Canoga Park at about 9 p.m. when the Toyota hit him, said Los Angeles police Officer James Whang of the Valley Traffic division. Romero was pronounced dead at the scene.
Romero, a Chatsworth High School senior from Reseda, played soccer for El Camino Real High last year, according to MaxPreps.com. He also played for the Real SoCal Soccer Club.
For video coverage, click here.
His friend, who apparently was riding in the far-right lane, was not injured, Whang said.
Investigators were looking Thursday for the driver of the Camry or Corolla, described as possibly gray in color with moderate to severe damage to the front passenger side of the vehicle, Whang said.
Police urge anyone with information to call 818-644-8034 or 818-644-8032.
City News Service contributed to this report.
