February 20, 2026: Woodland Man Sentenced to State Prison for Fatal Long Beach Hit-and-Run

The crash occurred on Dec. 26, 2024, on California Avenue at San Antonio Drive

LONG BEACH, Calif. - A Woodland man was sentenced today to two years in state prison for running a red light in Long Beach, striking 78-year-old Nikki Rash, and fleeing the scene. The victim later died from the injuries she sustained in the crash.

"I extend my deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of Nikki Rash," Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan J. Hochman said. "Running a red light is extremely dangerous and leaving the scene of a crash is unconscionable. Even when injuries are not immediately apparent, drivers have a legal and moral obligation to remain at the scene and ensure others are safe. I want to thank Deputy District Attorney Marie Kim Cox for her diligent prosecution of this case and the Long Beach Police Department for its thorough investigation. Our office will continue to hold accountable those who compound tragedy by trying to escape the consequences of their actions."

Mario Jesus Escobar Acosta (dob 12/5/66) pleaded no contest to one felony count of hit-and-run resulting in death to another person. He was sentenced today in the Long Beach Courthouse.

On Dec. 26, 2024, at approximately 4:45 p.m., Acosta ran a red light at the intersection of California Avenue and San Antonio Drive and struck the victim's vehicle. Rather than remain at the scene, Acosta fled. Rash died from her injuries on Jan. 4, 2025.

Case 25LBCF01291 was prosecuted by Deputy District Attorney Marie Kim Cox of the Long Beach Branch and investigated by the Long Beach Police Department.