Bicyclist Killed in St. Tammany Parish Crash

Covington – On September 7, 2024, at approximately 12:10 a.m., Troopers with Louisiana State Police Troop L began investigating a fatal crash involving a bicyclist on LA Hwy 1081 near Smith Road in St. Tammany Parish. The crash claimed the life of 33-year-old James W. Bowie of Covington.

The preliminary investigation revealed that a 2019 Chevrolet Blazer was traveling northbound on LA Hwy 1081. At the same time, Bowie was riding a bicycle in the northbound lane of LA Hwy 1081 near the center dashed line. For reasons still under investigation, the Chevrolet struck Bowie in the northbound lane.

Bowie, who was not wearing a helmet and was dressed in dark-colored clothing, sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene. Troopers determined that the bicycle was not equipped with rear lights or reflectors. A routine toxicology sample was obtained from Bowie for analysis.

The driver of the Chevrolet, who was properly restrained, was uninjured. During the crash investigation, Troopers observed no signs of impairment and determined the driver was not impaired. The driver voluntarily provided a breath sample, which showed a result below the legal limit.

This crash remains under investigation.

Troopers want to remind bicyclists that Louisiana law classifies bicycles as vehicles, meaning cyclists must adhere to the same traffic laws as motorists. Never assume that a motorist can see you, and remember that it’s important to stay visible by using appropriate lighting and wearing bright or reflective clothing in low-light conditions. Additionally, cyclists are required to ride as close to the right-hand side of the road as possible, except when passing or turning left. For additional information on bicycle safety, visit the Louisiana Highway Safety Commission’s website at https://www.lahighwaysafety.org/our-programs/bicycle-pedestrian-safety/.

Contact Information:
Trooper Marc Gremillion
Louisiana State Police
Public Affairs Section – Troop L
Phone: (985) 302-9272