Lake Charles, Louisiana – Two people were injured Monday night when a vehicle hit a horse-drawn carriage near Millennium Park in Lake Charles and then left the scene, according to police and the business that operates the carriage.
The crash happened around 8:10 p.m. near the intersection of Lakeshore Drive and Gill Street, Lake Charles Police Department spokesperson Lt. Jeff Keenum said. The area is a popular spot along the lakefront, close to downtown attractions and public spaces.
Two People Injured, One Transported For Brain Bleed
Police said two people were taken to a hospital after the incident.
Almosta Ranch, which operates horse-drawn carriage rides in the area, identified one of the injured as Michelle in a public Facebook post and said she suffered what they described as a “small brain bleed.” The post stated she was being transported to Lafayette General for treatment.
Almosta Ranch did not provide further medical details and no additional information on her condition was released by police. The business emphasized that its “only concern currently is getting Michelle healthy.”
Horse Reported Safe, Carriage Totaled
The horse involved in the crash, identified by Almosta Ranch as Flame, was described as “ok” in the Facebook post.
The company said the carriage was “totaled,” meaning it was damaged beyond repair.
Hit-And-Run Under Investigation
Lake Charles police said the vehicle that struck the carriage left the scene of the crash and did not remain to speak with officers or render aid.
The lead detective, Sgt. Scott Dougherty, is investigating the hit-and-run. He asked anyone with information about the incident to contact him directly at 337-491-1456, ext. 5427.
Almosta Ranch Cancels Remaining Season, Promises Refunds
In the aftermath of the crash, Almosta Ranch announced it is canceling all upcoming carriage rides for the rest of the season.
“We are cancelling all future rides for the season. We apologize for ruined plans. We will get refunds done as soon as possible,” the business wrote in its Facebook post, adding that its focus is on Michelle’s recovery.
The post did not list exact dates for the suspension of service or how long the shutdown may last beyond “this season.” Customers with reservations were told they would receive refunds.
How To Share Information
Anyone who may have witnessed the crash or who has surveillance video, dashcam footage, or other information that could help identify the vehicle or driver is asked to contact Sgt. Scott Dougherty with the Lake Charles Police Department at 337-491-1456, ext. 5427.