Detectives said this week that they had arrested the wrong man in connection with a fatal hit-and-run collision in Tierrasanta last month and are now asking for the public’s help in identifying the driver and vehicle involved in the crash.
The collision occurred around 7:25 p.m. Oct. 21 when a three-wheeled motorcycle was rear-ended while heading south on West Hills Parkway at Carlton Oaks Drive, according to police.
The force of the crash sent the motorcycle into a ravine. The bike’s 68-year-old female passenger — identified as Carol Carotenuti — died, and its driver, a 65-year-old man, suffered serious injuries, according to police.
Last week, police announced they had arrested 33-year-old Luis Hernandez after he was seen walking near the crime scene, believing he was the suspected hit-and-run driver.
However, further investigation revealed he was not involved in the hit-and-run, said Sgt. Marcelo Populin. Hernandez was still being investigated for alleged DUI, the sergeant said. It was not immediately clear if Hernandez remained in custody as of Thursday.
Video evidence shows the hit-and-run driver briefly stopped before fleeing the scene, police said.
Two other vehicles were flagged down by a witness asking for help after the crash, police said. Those two vehicles also briefly stopped before fleeing the scene, but the good Samaritan stayed to speak with police.
The vehicle that hit the motorcycle was described as a possibly dark SUV or sedan, with possible damage to its right side, police said.
Detectives said they want to get a statement or better description of the suspect’s car from the people who left the scene.
San Diego police asked that anyone with information about the case call the traffic unit at (858) 573-5002 or the Crime Stoppers anonymous tip line at (888) 580-8477.
Crime Stoppers is offering a reward of up to $1,000 to anyone with information leading to an arrest.
