CAR COLLISION: Car Smashes into Store after Collision; Driver Flees to Catch Flight

April 1, 2011

West Los Angeles – A two-car collision late Thursday evening in Jefferson Park sent one of the vehicles involved flying into a check-cashing business, narrowly missing people inside the building.

The accident occurred before midnight on the intersection of La Brea and Adams Boulevard. Authorities said a Nissan Altima beat a red light and struck a Chevrolet Impala going west on Adams as it passed through the intersection.

LA Police Department South Traffic Division officer Brian Whitten said the driver of the Impala lost control of her vehicle, causing it to crash through the window of the check-cashing store which was conducting business at the time of the accident.

The female driver of the Impala was extracted out using Jaws of Life and was taken to a local hospital after suffering minor injuries, including facial ones. The 26-year-old driver of the Altima, Deranna Fletcher, fled the scene on foot, but was later caught five blocks away with luggage in hands.

Whitten said Fletcher was in a hurry to catch a flight to the airport. He added that Fletcher would have eluded arrest if he only stopped and cooperate since he has a valid driver’s license and insurance. He also has no previous record and was not under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Fletcher is arrested for suspicion of felony hit and run. Business continued for the check-cashing store once the Impala was towed away.