UPDATE: LAFAYETTE, La. (Dec. 15, 2023, 12:03 p.m.) – Regarding the fatal traffic crash investigation involving the bicyclist and vehicle which occurred on the evening of December 14, 2023, the deceased has been identified as Melvin Whitsett, sixty-five, of Lafayette. Lafayette Police has arrested the vehicle’s driver, identified as William Durham, forty-seven, of Baton Rouge. The suspect, William Durham, was charged with Vehicular Homicide, as well as Operating a Motor Vehicle While Intoxicated, and he was subsequently booked into the Lafayette Parish Correctional Center. This fatal traffic crash remains under investigation by the Lafayette Police Department Traffic Unit.
LAFAYETTE, La. (Dec 14, 2023, 9:12 p.m.) – Lafayette Police are currently on the scene and investigating a fatal traffic crash involving a bicyclist on the 3000 block I-49 NE Frontage Road. At around 6:48 p.m., Lafayette Police responded to I-49 NE Frontage Road about a major traffic crash involving a vehicle and a person operating a bicycle. When officers arrived, the male bicyclist was located and pronounced deceased on the scene. The vehicle and male driver were also on the scene.
Initial investigation indicates that the bicyclist and vehicle were traveling northbound on the 3000 block I-49 NE Frontage Road, where the vehicle struck the bicyclist. As a result of the impact, the male operating the bicycle sustained fatal injuries.
The Lafayette Police Department Traffic Unit responded to the scene and is investigating.
Anyone who may have witnessed the incident or have any potential information is urged to contact the Lafayette Police Department or Lafayette CRIMESTOPPERS at 337-232-TIPS. Callers can and will remain anonymous.
An update will be provided when the roadway has been reopened and the identity of the deceased male is confirmed.
