Published: 04-13-2026 | Category: Troop L
Folsom – On April 12, 2026, at approximately 12:30 a.m., Troopers from Louisiana State Police Troop L began investigating a serious injury hit-and-run crash involving a bicyclist on LA Highway 40 at Blackwell Cemetery Road in St. Tammany Parish. The crash ultimately claimed the life of 24-year-old Rodrigo Ornelas Jr. of Folsom.
The preliminary investigation revealed that Ornelas Jr. was riding a bicycle east on LA Highway 40, in a poorly lit area. At the same time, an unknown, dark-colored sedan or small SUV was traveling east on LA Highway 40, struck Ornelas Jr., and left the scene.
Ornelas Jr., who was not wearing a helmet but was dressed in light-colored clothing, sustained serious injuries and was transported to a local hospital for treatment, where he later died. Troopers determined that the bicycle was equipped with reflectors but was not equipped with lights. A routine toxicology sample was obtained from Ornelas Jr. for analysis. This crash remains under investigation.
While Troopers work to identify the suspect vehicle and driver, anyone with information is urged to contact Louisiana State Police Troop L at (985) 893-6250. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through the Louisiana State Police online reporting system or by calling the LSP Fusion Center Hotline at 1-800-434-8007.
Troopers remind bicyclists that, under Louisiana law, bicycles are considered vehicles and riders must follow the same traffic laws as motorists. Never assume a driver can see you—stay visible with proper lighting and reflective clothing, especially in low-light conditions. Cyclists should ride as close to the right side of the roadway as practicable, except when passing or turning left. Additionally, Louisiana law requires proper lighting equipment when riding at night. For more bicycle safety information, 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
[email protected]