Collin Lacaze Killed in Alexandria Pedestrian Accident
The Alexandria Police Department arrested a 45-year-old man on vehicular homicide and DWI charges following the collision
Collin Lacaze, 16, was killed and another teenager was seriously injured when they were struck by a vehicle on Eddie Williams Avenue near Tulane Avenue in Alexandria, Louisiana, on Tuesday, March 31, according to the Alexandria Police Department.
Officers arrested a 45-year-old man the following morning on charges of vehicular homicide, vehicular negligent injury, and hit-and-run. Police Chief Chad Gremillion said the suspect was driving drunk when his southbound vehicle struck the teenagers and fled the scene.
Both victims were taken to a local medical center with serious injuries. Lacaze was later pronounced dead, while the 16-year-old girl's condition was not immediately available.
The two teenagers were standing on the right shoulder of the road around 11 p.m. when the collision occurred. Authorities have not released why the pair was on the shoulder as the investigation continues.
Why did the driver flee the scene on Eddie Williams Avenue?
While the Alexandria Police Department continues to investigate the circumstances that led to the fatal hit-and-run, victims like Lacaze are often left vulnerable by drivers who fail to remain at the scene. When criminal charges such as driving while intoxicated are involved, the investigative focus shifts to both the driver's actions and the environmental factors present at the time of the collision.
"When a community experiences a fatal accident, we have to look closely at the road's engineering. Sight distance and drainage grooves can be the difference between a driver seeing a hazard or losing control of their car," said Candice Bond, Managing Partner at Bond Legal.
How common are fatal pedestrian accidents in Louisiana?
The collision adds to a rising toll across the state. According to the Louisiana Highway Safety Commission, the state recorded 147 pedestrian deaths in 2023, with common causes including impaired driving, speeding, and low visibility.
Following a severe collision involving an impaired driver, insurance adjusters often contact the involved parties before the full extent of the legal and financial impacts are understood. Establishing a clear timeline of events is a critical step for families managing the aftermath of a sudden loss.
"I've seen families blindsided by how quickly a quiet walk turned into a nightmare," said Stefano Formica, Of Bond Legal
Individuals involved in pedestrian accidents may have legal options. Consulting a personal injury attorney can help clarify rights and potential claims.
Louisiana wrongful death statute
Under La. Civ. Code Art. 2315.1, surviving family members may file a wrongful death action. Louisiana applies pure comparative fault. The prescriptive period is 1 year from the date of death.
Recoverable damages may include loss of financial support, loss of love and affection, funeral expenses, and the decedent's pain and suffering.