Santa Monica man arrested in deadly Playa del Rey hit-and-run

A woman was struck and killed moments after leaving a laundromat in Playa del Rey early Thursday morning, police said. 

The deadly incident was reported just after 1 p.m. 

Arriving officers and firefighters arrived at the scene and found the victim unresponsive in the far right lane near the intersection of Pershing Drive and Manchester Avenue. There were no signs of the suspect’s vehicle or the driver, the Los Angeles Police Department said. 

Los Angeles Fire Department parademics attempted lifesaving efforts. However, the victim was pronounced dead at the scene.  

Authorities identified the victim as Patricia Ann O'Donnell, 48. Her hometown is currently unknown, police said. 

The driver never stopped after striking the victim and continued traveling northbound on Pershing Dr. After speaking to witnesses, LAPD investigators determined the suspect was driving a black Audi A5.

LAPD is currently investigating multiple hit-and-runs and is asking drivers to be more responsible. 

"This is the second one I’ve been on in the last four weeks. Identify yourself. If you get involved in a traffic collision, don’t make it a felony crime. Just stop, come forward and don’t be part of the problem, be a part of the solution," LAPD Capt. Brian Wendling said. 

LAPD officers later found and arrested the suspect, identified as Patrick Finkelstein, 45, of Santa Monica. He was booked on suspicion of vehicular manslaughter while driving under the influence and his bail was set at $100,000. 

The investigation is ongoing. 

Anyone with information is asked to contact LAPD’s West Traffic Division. 

City News Service contributed to this report.