CHP searches for driver in deadly hit and run of East Palo Alto motorcyclist

MILPITAS, Calif. (KTVU) - Two weeks shy of his 30th birthday a motorcyclist was killed and left to die on a South Bay highway after he was hit by a car on July 4.

California Highway Patrol needs help finding the driver who didn't stop near Interstate 880 north of the Tasman exit.

The victim is Maka Langi who hailed from Hawaii and lived in East Palo Alto. His family is inconsolable and seeking justice.

It was Langi's lifelong dream to own a motorcycle. The 29-year-old bought a 2007 Harley Davidson back in May on the one year anniversary of his mother's death. She died of cancer. Two months after owning the bike, his life abruptly ended.

"He was cruising on his bike and couldn't wait to see his nephew," said Tupou Taufahema who is Langi's cousin/best friend.

On July 4, CHP said around 9:15 p.m. Langi was riding his motorcycle on Interstate 880 North in Milpitas approaching the Highway 237 overpass when he was hit. CHP said the driver sped off and Langi died at the scene.

"We had plans of growing old together, we had a lot of plans together," said Taufahema. "My heart hurts. It really hurts."

Loved ones said the East Palo Alto man was loving, caring and known as Uncle Maka to the many kids in the family. While studying at Foothill College, he worked two jobs including one at Ikea and another helping his dad with his landscaping business.

No one is taking it harder than Langi's father.

"I know he loved me so much," said Langi's father Emmanuel.

They're praying to be comforted by answers. Despite this indescribable loss, Langi's father made it a point to say this about the driver.

"I forgive you down in my heart," said Langi. "I forgive you." Langi's family is pleading for that person to come forward.

"We just ask for help, ask for God to comfort us and ask everyone to help us because he such a good guy," said Taufahema.

Witnesses describe the driver's car as a newer black Dodge Charger or Challenger with retro style wrap around tail lights with front end damage.

Langi's family plans to bury him next to his mother in Los Altos and have set up a GoFundMe page to help with funeral expenses.