Updated at the bottom with a report that the man is in grave condition.

The latest hit-and-run crime in L.A. involved a bicyclist who was injured in Panorama City this week, police said.

See also: L.A.'s Bloody Hit-and-Run Epidemic.

That victim was hospitalized in unknown condition. Officials said he was severely injured. The motorist drove off without identifying himself, and now cops are on the hunt:

About 7 a.m. Monday, LAPD Valley Traffic Division cops were called to Lanark Street and Burnet Avenue to investigate the collision, the department said.


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According to an LAPD statement:

The investigation revealed that the bicyclist was riding westbound on Burnet Avenue when he was struck by an unknown vehicle, which was traveling southbound on Lanark Street. The driver of the vehicle fled the scene without identifying himself or rendering aid to the victim …

L.A. Fire Department paramedics took the bike rider to a hospital, police said. We called investigators to get a better idea of the victim's condition but were unable to reach anyone.

If you saw the collision, or if you think you might know who the driver is, traffic detectives would love to hear from you: (818) 644-8021.

[Update at 3:53 p.m.]: A man who says he's the victim's son identified the bicyclist as a 57-year-old man. He said he did not want his dad's name published just yet.

He told the Weekly his father sustained a “severe brain injury” and that his “condition deteriorated” to the point where family members were told his chance of survival was essentially “zero.” He said he'd keep us updated.

In the meantime he said family members want to see a suspect arrested:

We would like for you in the media to help us in pushing the authorities to find the person that caused this.

Send feedback and tips to the author. Follow Dennis Romero on Twitter at @dennisjromero. Follow LA Weekly News on Twitter at @laweeklynews.

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