Suspect in deadly Santa Monica hit-and-run arrested in Chicago, brought back to face charges

The driver suspected of hitting and killing two people with his vehicle and then fleeing the Santa Monica crash scene has been arrested and formally charged in their deaths.

On Wednesday, Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman held a press conference to announce the charges against 38-year-old Alex Kirksey.

Hochman announced Kirksey had been charged with two felony counts of gross vehicular manslaughter in the deaths of 61-year-olds Brad Lipshy and Maura Cohen.

Lipshy and Cohen were hit on the evening of Oct. 24 in the 1300 block of Wilshire Boulevard. Around 9:15 p.m., Santa Monica police responded to multiple 911 calls that reported an orange Dodge Charger plowed into four people on the sidewalk.

Lipshy and Cohen died at the scene, and two others were transported to a local hospital with major injuries but are expected to survive.

According to investigators, Kirksey allegedly ditched his car and fled the scene before ultimately leaving California altogether.

Investigators later learned that the Charger was registered to an online rental company. Detectives spoke to a woman who initially rented the vehicle, and later determined that Kirksey was hiding out in the Chicago area. That woman may have aided Kirksey in fleeing the state, police said, but her exact level of involvement has not yet been determined.

He was recently arrested with the help from Illinois authorities. Police say he was arrested at a transit station, and they believe he may have been attempting to travel further away from the reach of California authorities.

He has since been extradited back to California to face charges and remains in custody of the Santa Monica Police Department.

During Wednesday’s news conference, Santa Monica Mayor Lana Negrete wished for healing for those affected by the violent collision.

“I want to extend my deepest condolences to everyone affected by this tragedy,” Negrete said.

Michelle Cardiel, a friend of one of the victims, expressed relief that the crime wouldn’t go unanswered.

“I wish he hadn’t have ran, I wish he would’ve stayed there at the scene and called for help, but I’m glad he was caught and that our law enforcement did a great job and brought him back,” Cardiel said.

In addition to the charges for vehicular manslaughter, Kirksey also faces one count of felony hit-and-run resulting in death, one count of hit-and-run resulting in injury, and one count of reckless driving. 

Officials tell KTLA’s Ellina Abovian that Kirksey has a previous felony conviction. He is due in court on Thursday.

If convicted, he could face 26 years to life in prison. 

The investigation remains ongoing, and anyone with information is urged to contact SMPD Traffic Investigator Lantz Lewis at 310-458-2201 ext. 5311. The Police Department Watch Commander can be reached 24 hours a day at 310-458-8427.