December 14, 2003 -- "They just don't care. They are more worried about themselves and what happened to them than someone who's lying on the ground, " says Rene Deras of the news that his father, 60-year old Leopoldo Ruiz Deras, was the victim of a hit and run.

The younger Deras says he cannot fathom someone just driving off and leaving his dad wounded and helpless on the ground.

Leopoldo was killed Friday afternoon after he was hit by a car while crossing the intersection at Copia and Montana. Leopoldo was walking home from the grocery store just a block away from his home. Police say Leopoldo's body was thrown about 35 feet and the driver just took off.

Police say it is essential for anyone that is involved in any accident to stop and render aid.

Police are now actively looking for both the driver and the car. They describe it as a Ford Taurus, possibly a 90's model, white or silver in color.

Police say the car will provide key information as to how fast the driver was going and why they fled the scene. They now remind all drivers to be aware and cautious while they're out on the road.

The driver is facing felony charges. If you have any information on the driver of the car, you are asked to call police at 566-TIPS.