Investigation of fatal accident leads to arrest of Louisiana man

When a Louisiana driver fails to remain at the scene of a wreck, the police investigation often shifts from a simple crash inquiry into a manhunt. If a driver flees the scene of a fatal accident, it could be more problematic to locate him or her since at least one of the potential witnesses did not survive. Furthermore, upon locating the driver believed responsible, he or she could face harsher penalties than would have been possible after stopping, rendering aid and cooperating with police.

For example, on June 9, police responded to an accident that occurred on Interstate 10. The suspect vehicle rammed into the rear of another vehicle and went on to hit a second vehicle before coming to a rest. The driver then got out of the vehicle and ran.

A 14-year-old girl who was a passenger in the vehicle that was struck died as a result of her injuries. No information was given regarding injuries suffered by others involved in the wreck. Recently, a 40-year-old man turned himself in to authorities. He was taken into custody on charges that include negligent injuries and manslaughter. At last report, he was being held in the Orleans Parish Jail.

Now that the driver suspected of being behind the wheel of the car that caused this fatal accident has been apprehended, the family of the teenager can exercise its right to file a wrongful death suit. Evidence from the criminal proceedings, including any conviction secured by prosecutors, could help establish that the teenager’s death was due to the negligence of the accused man. If a Louisiana civil court determines that to be the case, it could order damages to be awarded to the family.

Source: ctpost.com, Arrest made in June 9 accident that killed girl, 14″, June 23, 2016