Jose Melesio of Chicago who was visiting LA for Dodgers-Cubs series killed by hit-and-run driver; $50,000 reward being offered

LOS ANGELES — The Los Angeles Police Department is offering a $50,000 reward for information leading to an arrest and conviction in a deadly hit-and-run that killed a 65-year-old man from Chicago.

Detectives announced the reward on Thursday as investigators continue searching for the driver who struck and killed Jose “Joey” Melesio on April 27 near the intersection of South Figueroa Street and 75th Street.

The victim was visiting family in Los Angeles and planned to attend the Dodgers-Cubs series that weekend, according to relatives.

Police said Melesio was walking when he was struck by a vehicle traveling northbound on Figueroa Street at a high rate of speed. Investigators said the driver did not stop to render aid, making the case a felony hit-and-run.

Authorities described the suspect vehicle as a small, four-door sedan, possibly white, gray or silver.

“It looks like it could be white, gray, light gray, silver in color, but not too much of that,” said LAPD. Det. Ryan Moreno. “We haven’t gotten yet, on video, a shot of the driver yet, so we don’t know nothing yet about the suspect.”

Family members described Melesio as a devoted relative and urged the driver to come forward.

“Joey was such a great, loving man to all his nephews and nieces and to his cousins. We are pleading, please, por favor,” said Melesio’s cousin Oscar Flores.

Police are also asking auto body shops to contact investigators if anyone recently brought in a small four-door sedan with front-end damage. Tips can be provided anonymously by calling the LAPD.

The family has started a GoFundMe to help cover funeral expenses and bring Melesio’s body back to Chicago.