Death of Angeles Rodriguez: The beloved DTLA churro seller was fatally hit by a suspected drunk driver on his way to work

LOS ANGELES (KABC) — A community comes together to help the family of a beloved Los Angeles street vendor who has been killed in an accident involving a suspected drunk driver.

According to family members, Angeles Rodriguez, who was known for selling churros downtown, was fatally shot on Sunday morning, January 22, while she was on her way to work.

She was pronounced dead on the spot. The driver was taken to hospital, according to police, and was later charged with drunk driving.

“She was always kind. She was always willing to help all people. She was the kindest person. She was a walking angel,” said the victim’s son, Edgar Gonzalez.

Gonzalez said his mother loved to work, although she juggled three jobs. She is survived by her husband and three children – who say the loss still doesn’t feel real.

“She always managed to make time for us. When we needed her, she was there,” Gonzalez said, adding that the family’s pain was heightened when they learned the suspect had been released on bail.

“We also heard from the detective that this individual was released on bail the same day and that hurts us because he took someone’s life,” he said. “This is my mother…my mother’s life.”

Rodriguez’s family held a fundraiser this weekend to help cover the cost of the funeral. They sold food, pastries and drinks to raise $20,000.

“It would really help us and on behalf of my family,” Gonzalez said. “We really appreciate everyone’s help.”

A GoFundMe was also created. Donate, Click here.