Pedestrian killed in Oakland hit-and-run identified

Authorities have identified an Oakland man who died Friday evening after a hit-and-run collision near Eastmont Town Center.

Lester Charles Harris, 53, was identified today by the Alameda County Coroner’s Office as the pedestrian fatally hit about 8:09 p.m. while walking westbound across 73rd Avenue outside of the crosswalk.

Cars that were headed southbound on 73rd stopped for Harris, who stumbled and fell in the number one lane of traffic, according to a release from Oakland police.

When Harris started to stand up, he fell forward, with part of his body falling into the number two lane, where he was hit.

The vehicle was described as an older model, black Ford Thunderbird. The car didn’t stop and continued southbound on 73rd Avenue.

Alcohol may be a factor in the incident, police said.

The incident is still under investigation and anyone with information is asked to call Oakland police traffic investigators at (510) 777-8570.