Updated May 10, 2022

Suspect Charged in May 6 Hit & Run Fatality in Moss Bluff

Lake Charles, LA – Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Office deputies were dispatched to the intersection of Joe Miller Road and Highway 171 in Moss Bluff at approximately 10:40 p.m. on Friday, May 6, in reference to a man unresponsive in the ditch.

During the initial investigation, detectives discovered that the victim was riding his bicycle eastbound on Joe Miller Road when he was struck from behind by an unknown vehicle.
Brian A. Matte, 62, of Lake Charles, Louisiana, was pronounced dead at the scene.

Deputies arrested Bentley A. Stewart, 43, of Westlake, LA during the initial fatality investigation on May 6 after it was discovered he had been driving under the influence near the crash site. Deputies did not have enough evidence at the time to charge Stewart with the fatality.

On May 10, 2022, after further investigation and collection of evidence, detectives issued a warrant signed by Judge Michael Canaday for Stewart’s arrest.
Stewart, who is still currently incarcerated at the Calcasieu Correctional Center for DWI 3rd offense; and operating a vehicle while under suspension, is additionally charged with vehicular homicide; hit & run death or serious bodily injury; and limitations on passing bicycles.
Stewart’s total bond is $391,000.

Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Office Lt. Bryan Guth and Sgt. Terry Faulk are the lead investigators on this case.

An arrest is an indication that probable cause exists to believe the subject was involved in the offense alleged. A person is innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

Original:

Lake Charles, LA – The Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Office reported on May 9, 2022, that at approximately 10:40 p.m. on Friday, May 6, 2022, CPSO deputies were dispatched near the intersection of Joe Miller Road and Highway 171 in Moss Bluff in reference to a man unresponsive in the ditch. During the initial investigation and after collecting evidence at the scene, detectives believe the victim was riding his bicycle eastbound on Joe Miller Road when he was struck from behind by an unknown vehicle. According to the preliminary investigation, the crash occurred between 10:00 p.m. and 10:30 p.m.

Brian A. Matte, 62, of Lake Charles, Louisiana, was pronounced dead at the scene.

Detectives with the Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Office are asking the public to call them at 337-491-3605 if they have any information about this fatality.

The crash is being investigated by CPSO Sgt. Terry Faulk.

Approximate location of the crash.