The city of Los Angeles is reeling after the tragic loss of Ms. Tanya Perry, a 50-year-old bus operator for Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (“L.A. Metro”), who was struck and killed in a hit-and-run collision Sunday evening in the Eagle Rock neighborhood. According to the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD), the fatal impact occurred around 7:40 p.m. near the on-ramp to the 2 Freeway and Colorado Boulevard.
Investigators say Perry was crossing the street during her break—near Colorado Boulevard and Eagle Dale Avenue in Eagle Rock—when a southbound vehicle entering the 2 Freeway on-ramp struck her. The driver fled the scene. Despite emergency responders’ swift efforts, Ms. Perry was pronounced dead at the scene.
In the wake of her passing, family, friends and coworkers gathered Tuesday evening for a candle-light vigil in Eagle Rock. The gathering was marked by tears, flickering candles and heartfelt memories as people recalled a woman whose kindness and dedication touched many lives. It was a solemn yet powerful display of community and love.
Ms. Perry’s sister, Logan, spoke through tears at the vigil. She described Tanya as a loving person who worked hard and inspired those around her. “My sister was a very loving person,” Logan said. “She worked every day and inspired everyone around her. This is devastating to our family. She didn’t deserve that.”
Co-workers at L.A. Metro and friends echoed those sentiments, remembering Tanya’s radiant smile, strong work ethic and generous heart. Outside her role driving buses, Ms. Perry had recently started a small baking business—“Forever Sweets”—a longtime dream she was excited to nurture. That dream, heartbreakingly, now remains unfinished.
L.A. Metro issued a statement expressing sorrow over the loss and gratitude for the first responders who connected with the tragedy that night. They emphasized that Tanya’s dedication to service and her compassionate presence among riders and colleagues will not be forgotten.
The LAPD continues its investigation and has appealed to the public for any information about the driver or vehicle involved, stressing that every detail may help bring justice for Tanya and closure for her family. Her passing serves as a painful reminder of how fragile life can be—and how powerfully we are reminded of love, community and remembrance when loss touches us so close to home.
Rest peacefully, dear Tanya Perry. Your light, your laughter and your love will forever live in the hearts of all who knew you. Gone too soon—but never, ever forgotten.
