The comedy world is mourning the loss of Perry Kurtz, a beloved figure in the industry, who was tragically killed in a hit-and-run accident in Los Angeles, California. The incident took place late on Thursday night in the Tarzana neighborhood while Kurtz was crossing an intersection. The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) has reported that a car driven by a teenager hit Kurtz, resulting in his immediate death. First responders from the Los Angeles Fire Department pronounced the 73-year-old comedian dead at the scene.
The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner confirmed Kurtz’s identity on Friday morning. An autopsy has been scheduled, according to online records. Kurtz was a prominent figure in the comedy scene, having showcased his talent on Season 8 of “America’s Got Talent.”
The LAPD has since arrested an 18-year-old male, suspected to be the driver responsible for the fatal hit-and-run. The teenager is currently facing a charge of suspicion of felony hit-and-run causing death. The police report indicated that a gray Honda Civic was traveling eastbound on Ventura Boulevard when it hit Kurtz. The car continued eastbound without stopping, identifying itself, or providing aid as required by law.
Law enforcement was able to track down the alleged hit-and-run driver at his residence. The suspect’s vehicle was found abandoned not far from the scene of the collision. Zelda Velazquez, Kurtz’s daughter, revealed on Facebook that her father was commuting between comedy gigs when the tragic incident occurred.
Dante Rusciolelli, Kurtz’s agent, expressed his profound grief over the news. He shared that Kurtz was not just a client but also a friend since 1987. Rusciolelli added that Kurtz had been a key figure in the Los Angeles comedy community for decades and his absence would be deeply felt. He extended his prayers to Kurtz’s family.
Kurtz was best known for his Season 8 “America’s Got Talent” audition, where he humorously rapped about all of the judges, despite receiving three nos. Earlier this week, the comedian performed a show in Los Angeles. A video of his performance was posted to his official Facebook account on Thursday, just hours before his untimely death.