Las Vegas, Nevada — A Las Vegas family is searching for answers after a hit-and-run crash caught on surveillance video left a new father hospitalized with a brain bleed and serious internal injuries, just weeks after welcoming his first child.
Police say the collision happened Monday evening on East Lake Mead Boulevard at Marion Drive, where a motorcyclist was struck by a white SUV whose driver fled the scene without stopping.
Crash captured on surveillance video
According to investigators, Matias Lagarreta was riding his motorcycle through the intersection when the SUV barreled through and slammed into him. Video from a nearby business captured the impact and the vehicle speeding away, leaving Lagarreta lying in the roadway.
Authorities confirmed the driver did not render aid or contact emergency services.
New father critically injured
Lagarreta, who became a father last month, was on a short errand just minutes from his home when the crash occurred. His wife, Ashley Lagarreta, said they had planned to go together.
“We were going to run our errands together, but he said, ‘No, it’s OK, I’ll go on the motorcycle,’” she said.
Family members realized something was wrong when Lagarreta did not return home on time.
“His cousin texted me and asked where Matias is. He should be home by now,” Ashley said.
Rushed to hospital in a coma
First responders transported Lagarreta to University Medical Center of Southern Nevada, where doctors placed him in a coma due to the severity of his injuries.
Medical teams diagnosed him with bruised lungs and a brain bleed, injuries that doctors say can require extended monitoring and rehabilitation.
In a hopeful development, Ashley said her husband has recently regained consciousness.
“I was able to tell him I love him and he was able to say it back,” she said.
Family pleads for driver to turn themselves in
As Lagarreta begins what doctors expect will be a long and difficult recovery, his family is urging the driver responsible to come forward.
“It’s scary to think that I could lose the father of my child,” Ashley said. “If you were scared, and that was the case, admit you were scared.”
Police have not released a suspect description beyond confirming the vehicle involved was a white SUV.
Investigation ongoing
Las Vegas police say the crash remains under investigation, and detectives are reviewing surveillance footage and canvassing the area for additional cameras or witnesses.
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Officials urge anyone with information about the vehicle or driver to contact authorities.
Community support grows
Facing mounting medical expenses, the family has launched a GoFundMe to help cover hospital bills and ongoing care as Lagarreta recovers.
While the investigation continues, the family hopes the video evidence will lead to accountability — and closure.
What do you think should happen in hit-and-run cases like this, and how can drivers be encouraged to stay at the scene? Share your thoughts in the comments.
