562.570.5273
LBPDPIO@longbeach.gov
Collision Investigation detectives are investigating a collision that occurred on Dec. 10, 2024, which resulted in the death of a male adult driver.
On Dec. 10, 2024 at approximately 6:52 p.m., officers were dispatched to the area of 68th Way and Belhurst Avenue regarding an injury traffic collision involving a go-cart and a vehicle.
Upon arrival, officers discovered a homemade go-cart had collided with an unoccupied parked Chevrolet Silverado. Long Beach Fire Department personnel transported a male adult go-cart driver to a local hospital. Despite life saving efforts, the man was pronounced deceased at the hospital.
The initial investigation indicated the driver of the vehicle may have suffered a medical emergency which resulted in a loss of control of the vehicle and subsequent collision with the parked vehicle.
At this time, speed, impaired driving and distracted driving are not considered factors in the collision.
The decedent has been identified as Rafael Joseph Phillips Jr., a 51-year-old, person experiencing homelessness.
Anyone who may have information regarding this incident is asked to contact LBPD Collision Investigation Detail Detective Kevin Johansen at (562) 570-7355. Anonymous tips may be submitted through "LA Crime Stoppers" by calling 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), downloading the "P3 TIPS" app to your smartphone (available at the Apple App store and Google Play), or visiting www.LACrimeStoppers.org.