Louisiana Fire Chief Charged with Driving While Intoxicated After Crashing into Fire Hydrant

By Calcasieu Staff
Published September 22, 2024

Share This:

DeSoto Parish, Louisiana – An incident occurred in Louisiana, on September 21 when DeSoto Parish Fire District Chief Mark Magee was involved in a single-vehicle crash at the intersection of Louisiana Highway 5 and Louisiana Highway 172. The 39-year-old fire chief was subsequently arrested and charged with driving while intoxicated (DWI) and careless operation.

According to Louisiana State Police, the crash occurred at approximately 12:15 p.m. when Magee, who was driving a 2022 Ford F-250 assigned to Fire District 1, lost control of the vehicle and collided with a fire hydrant. The Ford, which was equipped with emergency lights but was unmarked, sustained damage in the crash.

Upon arriving at the scene, Troopers from Louisiana State Police Troop G detected signs of impairment on Magee. A blood sample was collected and submitted for analysis, leading to his arrest and charges. The investigation into the crash is ongoing, and authorities are still trying to determine the cause of the incident.

Louisiana State Police emphasized the importance of responsible driving and urged motorists to plan ahead when consuming alcohol. The agency noted that impairment is a common cause of preventable motor vehicle crashes across the state and that even a single drink can impair a person’s ability to safely operate a vehicle.

Magee is currently facing charges of DWI and careless operation. The incident has raised concerns about the potential consequences of impaired driving and the importance of prioritizing road safety.

An arrest is an indication that probable cause exists to believe the subject was involved in the offense alleged. All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty.