Published: 05-03-2026 | Category: Troop B
TROOP B NEWS RELEASE
May 3, 2026
Cyclist Succumbs to Injuries Sustained in Jefferson Parish Crash
Elmwood – On May 1, 2026, shortly before 6:00 a.m., Troopers with Louisiana State Police Troop B began investigating a two-vehicle injury crash involving a bicyclist on Louisiana Highway 48 (Jefferson Highway) near Louisiana Highway 3152 (Clearview Parkway) in Jefferson Parish. The crash ultimately claimed the life of 50-year-old Carl Stewart of New Orleans.
The preliminary investigation found that Stewart was riding a bicycle south across the westbound travel lanes of LA Hwy 48. At the same time, a 2003 Mercedes-Benz C240 was traveling west on LA Hwy 48 in the left lane. For reasons still under investigation, Stewart was struck by the Mercedes-Benz. Investigators determined no visible lights or high-visibility items were present at the time of the crash.
Stewart sustained life-threating injuries and was transported to a local hospital for treatment. Troop B was later notified that he succumbed to his injuries on May 2, 2026. The driver of the Mercedes-Benz was uninjured and properly restrained.
Impairment is not believed to be a factor in the crash; however, as part of the ongoing investigation, a routine toxicology sample was collected for analysis. The driver of the Mercedes-Benz voluntarily provided a breath sample, which showed no alcohol detected. This crash remains under investigation.
Troopers remind motorists that Louisiana roadways are shared by vehicles of all sizes, as well as bicyclists and pedestrians. Motorists must allow at least three feet of clearance when passing a bicyclist. Louisiana law also classifies bicycles as vehicles, meaning bicyclists are required to follow the same traffic laws as motorists. Bicyclists should never assume motorists can see them and should remain visible by using proper lighting and wearing bright or reflective clothing, especially during low-light conditions.
Contact Information:
Trooper Kyle Wagner
Louisiana State Police
Public Affairs Section – Troop B
(504) 202-6900
[email protected]