Their loved ones are devastated after their Southern California father was killed by a hit and run driver.
On February 18, victim Josh Nichols, 44, was walking home with his dog after a night out.
Shortly before 1am, deputies responded to a report of a man lying on the road on Riverside Drive just west of Baker Street on Lake Elsinore.
Deputies arrive discover that Nichols was injured and lying on the street. He was declared dead at the scene. Based on the evidence, the detective believes he was hit by the car before the driver escaped.
The circumstances surrounding the fatal crash fall remain unknown, but Nichols’ friends believe that his dog, Woodson, could have somehow broken off from his leash.
His friends and family recall the kind and cheerful spiritual man who always supported them.
The victim, Josh Nichols, 44, can be seen in a family photo. The victim, Josh Nichols, 44, can be seen in a family photo. (KTLA) The victim’s dog, Woodson, remains missing and can be seen in family photos. Riverside Drive on Lake Elsinore. (KTLA) Jason Nichols, the victim’s brother, will speak to KTLA on February 20, 2025. He hopes the hit and run driver will be caught soon. (KTLA) Josh Nichols is seen with close friends in personal photos. Josh Nichols is seen in a personal photo with his best friend, Jeff Hippen.
“When he passed away, it tore a part of my heart,” his brother, Jason Nichols, told KTLA’s Shelby Nelson.
“This wasn’t part of the plan,” said Jeff Hippen, the victim’s close friend. “I hope he will be remembered by him for the heart he had. Our love for each other was endless. He will do anything for me.”
Their loved ones described Nichols as a social butterfly who loves to meet new people.
“When we go out somewhere, he always wants to talk to everyone,” said longtime friend Rio Mitchell. “He was always really happy, lively and just a wonderful person.”
A makeshift memorial honoring Nichols can be seen along Riverside Drive.
Authorities believe the suspect’s car is probably a dark-colored vehicle that will damage the front end.
“If I could find out who did this, it would give me peace of mind,” Jason was overwhelmed by the emotions. “My mother committed suicide and my father died. [Josh] He was the only person I had in my life. ”
Police said Nichols’ dog Woodson remains missing. No further details have been made public as the case is under investigation.
Anyone with information about the incident will be asked to call the Deputy Keyser at Lake Elsinore Sheriff Station at 951-245-3300 or the Riverside Sheriff’s Detective at 951-776-1099.
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