Louisiana Authorities Asking for Help Locating Driver in Fatal Hit-and-Run Crash Involving Bicyclist on LA 182

Louisiana – Louisiana State Police reported that on August 24, 2022, soon after 5:30 a.m., Troopers from LSP Troop I began investigating a crash involving a bicyclist on Louisiana Highway 182 near Whispering Oaks Drive in St. Landry Parish. Davonte Chane Edwards, 22, of Breaux Bridge, Louisiana, died in the crash.

According to the preliminary investigation, Edwards was riding his bicycle southbound on LA 182 near the center line. At the same time, a motorist in a 2007 Toyota Camry going south on LA 182 struck the bicycle from behind. Edwards was thrown from his bicycle and into the northbound lane of traffic as a result of the collision. Later, another unknown vehicle driving north on LA 182 struck Edwards.

Edwards died as a result of his injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. The Toyota driver was not hurt and showed no evidence of impairment. Toxicology samples were collected from both the Toyota driver and the bicyclist. Both samples will be subjected to scientific examination. This crash is still being investigated.

Troopers are asking for the public’s help in locating the hit-and-run vehicle and driver. Anyone with information on the crash is asked to call Louisiana State Police Troop I at 337-262-5884.

Bicyclists should never presume that automobiles can see them, say Louisiana State Troopers. Simple precautions such as wearing an approved bicycle helmet, using reflective materials, and avoiding distractions are critical in reducing crashes. Bicyclists must have sufficient front and rear illumination that is visible from 500 feet away, as well as reflectors, according to Louisiana law. Bicyclists should ride as near to the right side of the road as possible and respect all traffic laws (See Louisiana Revised Statute 32:329.1). Motorists should be cautious at all times and follow the three-foot limit while passing bicycles.

So far in 2022, Troop I has investigated 32 fatal crashes, resulting in 38 deaths.