Arrest Made in Hit-and-Run Crash that Killed a Pedestrian and Injured Another

Lafayette Parish – Troopers have arrested 40-year-old Vernon Landry of Lafayette in connection with the early morning hit-and-run crash that claimed the life of 43-year-old Alicia K. Prudhomme and injured a second pedestrian. Through investigative means, troopers identified Landry as the driver of the 2008 Jeep Liberty believed to be involved in the crime. On March 18, 2024, Landry was booked into the Lafayette Parish Correctional Center on the charge of LRS 14:100 Hit-and-run resulting in death or injury. This crash remains under investigation.

Original Release:

TROOP I NEWS RELEASE

March 14, 2024

Pedestrian Killed, Another Injured in Lafayette Parish Hit-And-Run Crash

Lafayette Parish – Shortly before 3:00 a.m. on Thursday, March 14, 2024, Louisiana State Police Troop I was notified of a hit-and-run crash on Louisiana Highway 724 (Duhon Road) near Breaux Road in Lafayette Parish. The crash claimed the life of 43-year-old Alicia K. Prudhomme of Carencro.

The initial investigation revealed Prudhomme and another person were walking in or near the eastbound travel lane of LA 724. At the same time, a vehicle was traveling east on LA 724 and struck both pedestrians, then fled the scene. Both pedestrians wore dark clothing, and no illumination devices were present.

Prudhomme was pronounced dead at the scene by the Lafayette Parish Coroner's Office. The other pedestrian was transported to a local hospital in critical condition. Impairment on the part of Prudhomme is unknown. A toxicology sample was obtained for analysis.

Troopers were able to locate and secure a vehicle of interest and the Louisiana State Police Crime Lab will process it for evidence. This crash remains under investigation, and charges are pending.

Walking upon a highway at night without proper safety devices, such as reflective clothing or flashlights, significantly increases the risk of accidents due to reduced visibility for drivers. Employing safety measures like these is crucial to ensure pedestrian safety, particularly during low-light conditions.

Louisiana state law requires drivers involved in a crash resulting in injury to stop at the scene, give their identity, and provide reasonable aid. Leaving the scene of a serious injury or fatal crash in Louisiana is a felony offense.

Anyone with information concerning this crash is encouraged to call Louisiana State Police Troop I at 337-262-5880.

Troop I has investigated nine fatal crashes, resulting in nine deaths in 2024.

Contact Information:
S/T Thomas Gossen
Louisiana State Police
Public Affairs Section
Office: (337) 262-5880
thomas.gossen@la.gov