Tips Lead To Alleged Driver In Hit & Run That Killed Motorcyclist
LAKEWOOD, Colo. (CBS4) - A motorcyclist has died after a collision with a hit-and-run driver in Lakewood Friday night. The suspect was arrested Saturday afternoon with help from the public.
The incident happened in near South Sheridan Boulevard and West Center Avenue at approximately 9:30 p.m. Police say a pickup truck allegedly driven by Juan Carlos Hernandez-Lupercio, 47, pulled out in front of the motorcyclist and caused the accident. The driver of the pickup truck then fled the scene.
The driver of the motorcycle, identified as Dana Schaeffer, 47, of Lakewood, was taken to the hospital and later died from his injuries.
Hernandez-Lupercio was arrested for failure to remain at the scene of an accident resulting in death, careless driving resulting in death, no proof of insurance and failure to notify police of an accident. His pickup truck has been impounded for the investigation.
Police said tips from the public led to Hernandez-Lupercio's arrest. He also has an arrest record dating back to 2007 for kidnapping, DUI and two cases of assault.
"We're hoping the public is starting to get the message that hit-and-runs aren't something the police would just ignore. Metro-wide it has been widely reported in the media this last year, on all these various hit-and-runs," Detective Ryan McKone with Lakewood police said. "I believe we are starting to get more cooperation, more information from the public. People will see something in the past would say, 'Oh, police will follow up on it.' Now they are starting to realize these hit-and-runs have serious consequences."
Schaeffer was a father of three and grandfather of two.
"He's kind of the foundation of the family, so kind of always expected him to be around," Schaeffer's daughter-in-law Beth Schaeffer said. "It was a shock; definitely not something we expected."
The Schaeffer family said they appreciate the tips that led to the arrest.
"There's not going to be proper justice served. I'm sorry, but the way I see it, it's vehicular homicide, but I'm very thankful he was found," Beth Schaeffer said.
Additional Information From Lakewood Police
If you witnessed this accident or have additional information please contact the Lakewood Police Department at (303) 987-7111.
