Roxanne Stempien Killed, Tray Thomas Injured in Hit-and-Run Crash on Prairie Avenue [Inglewood, CA]

Roxanne Stempien Dead, Tray Thomas Injured in Inglewood Hit-and-Run

 
INGLEWOOD, CA (July 15, 2019) — A suspected hit-and-run driver struck and killed a pregnant woman identified as Roxanne Stempien.
 
The crash happened shortly before 2 a.m., on Sunday July 14. Two friends — a man and the woman — were crossing Prairie Avenue at 109th Street when a vehicle struck both of them.
 
The male victim was later identified as Tray Thomas. He was transported to the hospital in stable condition. He sustained broken bones but he is expected to be okay.
 
The female, 40-year-old Roxanne Lynn Stempien of Hawthorne, died at the scene. A local news source confirmed that she was four-and-one-half months pregnant at the time.
 
The driver responsible in the incident fled the area, according to authorities.
 
Evidence found at the location led police to an address in Hawthorne. They detained the suspected driver as he tried to enter his apartment.
 
The officers identified the suspect as 42-year-old Richard Marlin Merritt. They arrested him on a felony DUI charge, felony hit-and-run, and manslaughter.

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No words can mend the broken hearts and sorrow felt during this delicate moment. Our deepest condolences and sympathies are with the loved ones and friends of Roxanne Stempien.

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