Teen killed in Tuesday-morning Opelousas crash after high-speed chase
UPDATE, 10/2/24, 1:30 p.m.: The crash was the result of a chase in which the 17-year-old driver fled from Sunset Police, authorities said.
According to Opelousas Police, Sunset PD observed a red Honda Accord traveling the wrong way on a one-way street within the city limits of Opelousas. The officer attempted to stop the vehicle and the driver refused to comply, fleeing at a high rate of speed.
After what officials called "a brief pursuit," the unidentified driver of the vehicle, later identified as a 17-year-old male, lost control of the car and crashed. The driver was ejected from the vehicle upon impact and died at the scene.
Investigators believe the vehicle was stolen prior to the pursuit. Opelousas Police received a report at approximately 6:30 a.m. from the vehicle's owner, who said her red Honda Accord had been stolen from her place of employment earlier that morning.
The Opelousas Police Department is actively investigating the incident and urges anyone with information to come forward. Those with details that could assist in the investigation are encouraged to contact Opelousas Police at 337-948-2500.
ORIGINAL STORY: OPELOUSAS, La. (KLFY) -- A man is dead after a crash early Tuesday morning in Opelousas, authorities said.
According to Opelousas Police, officers responded at approximately 3:27 a.m. Tuesday to a crash in the 1100 block of East Vine Street. Officers discovered an unidentified male dead at the scene, officials said.
No other information was released. This story will be updated as more information becomes available.
Anyone with information regarding this incident is urged to contact the Opelousas Police Department at 337-948-2500. Information can also be submitted anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 337-948-TIPS, via email at crimetips@opelousaspd.com, or through the P3 mobile App. Tipsters may be eligible to receive a cash reward of up to $2,500.