Engaged Couple Fatally Injured in Collision on Valmont Street and Foothill Boulevard Intersection
TUJUNGA, CA (April 27, 2018) – Around 8:40 PM on Friday evening, a couple was killed in a hit-and-run motorcycle accident at the intersection of Foothill Boulevard and Valmont Street.
The deceased victims were identified by the coroner’s office on Sunday as 30-year-old Ariane Turek and 34-year-old James Bellissimo, a veteran. Both were from Tujunga.
According to reports, Bellissimo was riding his motorcycle with Turek sitting passenger westbound on Foothill Blvd. At the same time, a 2007 Chevrolet Tahoe was driving eastbound when it made a left turn northbound onto Valmont St, coming into the path of the motorcycle. They collided, causing the motorcycle to lose control and crash into a parked car.
Firefighters from the Los Angeles Fire Department arrived to the crash site on the 7400 block of West Valmont. Turek was thrown frat the bike and pinned under a car; she was pronounced dead at the scene. Bellissimo suffered critical injuries and was transported to a local hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries at 9:41 PM.
The Chevy driver fled from the scene and the suspect vehicle was found one miles from the crash site. There is currently no description of the hit-and-run driver as officials continue their investigation.
If you witnessed the accident or have additional information, call Valley Traffic Division Detective Larkin at (818) 644-8115 or Detective Daniel Menesez at (818) 644-8028. If you would like to remain anonymous, call Crime Stoppers at (800) 222-8477.
A vigil was held on Saturday night at the scene of the tragic accident, in honor of the young couple.
Heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Ariane Turek and James Bellissimo. Wishing them strength and comfort in this difficult time. Turek and Bellissimo were engaged to be married in the summer. May they rest in peace.
If you have lost a loved one in a tragic hit-and-run motorcycle accident, contact the wrongful death lawyers at Sweet Law Group. We understand what you and your family are going through and are here to help you achieve the justice and compensation you deserve. Call (800) 203-3061 now for a free consultation with a legal professional in your area. For your convenience, we are also available through email, text message, and online chat.
