Louisiana Bicyclist Killed in Heartbreaking Crash While Riding Across Roadway

(KPEL-FM) - A heartbreaking situation unfolded on a Louisiana roadway very early on the morning of Monday, March 31, when a bicyclist rode into the path of oncoming traffic, leading to the loss of his life.

When Did The Collision Happen?

According to Louisiana State Police Trooper First Class Jacob Pucheu, investigators determined during the preliminary investigation that the bicycle rider was trying to cross the roadway at around 1:30 Monday morning.

A driver was driving in the right-hand land of US Highway 90 when investigators say 43-year-old Paul Garcia rode his bicycle in front of the driver's vehicle.

Pucheu says the man was struck, and due to the severity of his injuries, he was pronounced dead at the scene.

What Else Is Known About The Situation?

Officials say the driver of the vehicle that struck Garcia was wearing a seat belt when the crash happened and that person was not hurt.

As is typically the case in a severe injury or fatality crash, routine blood samples were taken, and they will be sent to a lab to be analyzed.

What Louisiana State Police Officials Want Drivers To Know

• They remind drivers that alcohol, drugs, and even prescribed medicine can alter their ability to react when they are driving.
• They remind everyone that you must be wearing a seat belt while you're in any vehicle.
• Bicycles are classified as vehicles in the state of Louisiana, so bicycle operators must follow all laws associated with driving.
• They ask everyone driving to remember to follow all laws.
• Bicyclists should never assume that they can be seen by a driver.
• When bicycling, it's recommended you wear bright, reflective clothing.
• Bicycles must have the appropriate lighting based on state law.

This is a developing story, and the KPEL News Team is working to provide additional coverage for Acadiana. Updates will be shared as they become available, so download the KPEL News app via Google Play or in the App Store and subscribe to breaking news alerts to get the latest information sent directly to your mobile device.

You can also use the KPEL app to submit a news tip, share a traffic update, or chat directly with our on-air team.

Be sure to bookmark our latest site, wearelafayette.net, where we provide more local news coverage as well as lifestyle and community features.

To report errors, omissions, or other concerns regarding the content above, send emails to news@kpel965.com.