Long Beach
Police Department

Collision Investigation detectives are investigating a traffic collision that occurred on May 12, 2024, which resulted in the death of a 17-year-old boy.  

At approximately 12:40 a.m., officers were dispatched to the area of Orange Avenue and South Street regarding an injury hit and run collision involving a vehicle and a pedestrian.  

Upon arrival, officers began providing lifesaving measures until the Long Beach Fire Department arrived and took over medical aid. The pedestrian was transported to a local hospital by Fire personnel and later succumbed to their injuries. 

The preliminary investigation revealed a 2012 Cadillac SRX, was driving northbound on Orange Avenue and collided with a pedestrian on a self-propelled scooter north of South Street. The driver of the Cadillac then fled the scene northbound where it later crashed into an apartment building at 6100 Orange Avenue.  

The driver then fled the scene on foot. A short time later, the driver returned to the scene and was taken into custody by officers.  

The driver has been identified as Karen Mativa, a 35-year-old resident of Compton, who was booked for driving under the influence, hit and run resulting in death or injury, gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated and assault with a deadly weapon with force. Bail is set at $130,000. 

There were no injuries as a result of the collision with the apartment building. 

Speed and impaired driving are being investigated as contributing factors at this time. 

The identify of the 17-year-old pedestrian is being withheld at this time due to their age and identification by the Los Angeles County Department of the Medical Examiner.  

Anyone with information regarding this collision is asked to contact LBPD Collision Investigation Detail Detective Kevin Johansen (562)570-7355. Anonymous tips may be submitted through "LA Crime Stoppers" by calling 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), downloading the "P3 TIPS" app to your smartphone (available at the Apple App store and Google Play), or visiting www.LACrimeStoppers.org.