PUBLIC SAFETY FACILITY — After further interviews with witnesses regarding a hit-and-run accident that left a Santa Monica man in critical condition, investigators on Tuesday released a new description of the possible vehicle involved.
Police are asking for the public’s help in identifying the car, which was identified by witnesses as a large sedan, dark blue or black in color with front headlights similar to the shape of “a cat’s eyes,” said Santa Monica Police Department Investigator Chris Dawson.
Witnesses initially said the vehicle involved in the crash was a red SUV or truck.
The incident, which occurred on Jan. 17, 2009, at about 12:30 a.m., involved a 33-year-old bicyclist later identified as Daniel Seeck. Police said Seeck was struck at the corner of Arizona Avenue and 20th Street. He was transported to a local hospital where he is listed in critical condition.
Ty Pennington, the host of ABC’s “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition,” offered a $10,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the hit-and-run driver.
Seeck is the cousin of one of Pennington’s managers.
Police believe Seeck was riding his bike at night without a light. He was not riding with a helmet either, police said.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Dawson at (310) 458-8954, or Sgt. Larry Horn at (310) 458-8950. The watch commander is also available 24 hours a day at (310) 458-8427.
kevinh@www.smdp.com
