Iberia Parish, Louisiana – Just before 6:45 a.m. on April 8, 2024, Troopers from Louisiana State Police Troop I were informed of a deadly crash involving a bicycle on the US 90 Service Road near Darnall Road. The collision tragically resulted in the death of Leland Schouest, a 59-year-old resident of Opelousas, Louisiana.

The first examination conducted by the State Police found that a 1992 Chevrolet Silverado was moving east on the north US 90 Frontage Road. At the same time, Schouest was riding a bicycle in the opposite direction on the same road. For reasons unknown, Schouest turned towards the middle of the lane while the pickup driver swerved left to avoid a crash. The front right of the pickup collided with the bicycle, causing Schouest to be thrown from it.

Schouest sustained life-threatening injuries and was declared deceased by the Iberia Parish Coroner’s Office. A blood sample was taken for testing. The driver of the pickup truck, who was unharmed, provided a breath sample that showed no alcohol and no signs of impairment.

This crash remains under investigation.

Louisiana law requires cyclists to follow traffic rules just like drivers and to ride on the right side of the road except when passing or turning left. Following these laws not only improves safety on the road but also helps foster better communication between cyclists and other drivers in Louisiana.

So far in 2024, Troop I has investigated 15 deadly crashes that led to 16 fatalities.