Arnaudville, Louisiana - A fatal crash occurred on Louisiana Highway 31 near Melanie Lane on September 8, 2024, claiming the life of 23-year-old Denzel Flugence of Lafayette, Louisiana. The incident happened shortly after 8:00 p.m. when a 2002 Chevrolet Tahoe struck Flugence, who was walking in the roadway.

According to the preliminary investigation by Louisiana State Police Troop I, the Tahoe was traveling northbound on LA Hwy 31 when it struck Flugence. The pedestrian suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene. The driver of the Tahoe, who was properly restrained, was uninjured in the crash.

The driver of the Tahoe cooperated fully with the investigation and voluntarily submitted to a breathalyzer test, which showed no alcohol detected. Routine toxicology samples were obtained from Flugence and submitted for analysis. The investigation into the crash is ongoing.

Pedestrians can reduce their risk of being involved in a crash by following simple safety guidelines, such as wearing light-colored or reflective clothing, avoiding walking on roadways in poorly lit areas, and always assuming that approaching motorists may not see them.

Additionally, pedestrians should cross streets in well-lit, designated areas and walk facing traffic. Motorists can also play a crucial role in preventing pedestrian-related crashes by avoiding distractions while behind the wheel and remaining attentive to the roadway.