Louisiana Man Killed After Being Struck by Sheriff’s Office Patrol Vehicle

Louisiana – Louisiana State Police reported on May 20, 2022, that on May 19, 2022, shortly after 10:00 p.m., Troopers with LSP Troop B responded to a vehicle crash involving a pedestrian on US 61 (Airline Highway) near Windsor Street in Laplace. Dave Walker, 45, of Laplace, died as a result of this collision.

According to the preliminary investigation, a St. John Parish Sheriff’s Office Deputy was on duty and driving a fully marked 2019 Chevrolet Tahoe patrol unit in the right lane of US 61 south near Windsor Street. Walker was also attempting to cross the southbound lanes of US 61, just south of Windsor Street. The Tahoe struck Walker as he entered the right lane of US 61 south. There are no designated crosswalks in the crash area, and lighting is limited.

Walker died as a result of his injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. The Tahoe’s driver and front seat passenger were unrestrained and unharmed at the time of the crash.

Although the Deputy is not suspected of being impaired, a voluntary blood sample was taken and will be sent to the Louisiana State Police Crime Lab for analysis. Walker’s impairment is unknown, and toxicology samples will be obtained for testing. The investigation is still going on.

Pedestrians and motorists alike are urged to be cautious and aware of their surroundings while traveling on area roads. Pedestrian collisions can often be avoided by following some basic safety guidelines. Pedestrians should wear light-colored or reflective clothing and avoid walking on the road in low-light conditions. Pedestrians must also assume that approaching motorists will not be able to see them, particularly at night. Pedestrians will be safer if they cross roads only in well-lit, designated areas and always walk facing traffic.