Barrett Coleman arrested after hit-and-run crash on Evangeline Thruway

Driver struck a pedestrian along the frontage road, leaving one dead

April 19, 2026 | Carencro, LA

A tragic hit-and-run crash claimed the life of a pedestrian early Sunday morning in Carencro, Louisiana. 

Authorities arrested 42-year-old Barrett Coleman of Lafayette in connection with the incident that occurred in the 3400 block of Northwest Evangeline Thruway.

Barrett Coleman, 42, was arrested after a pedestrian was fatally struck on Northwest Evangeline Thruway in Carencro.

What Happened in the Crash?

The unidentified victim, described as a white male, was walking northbound along the frontage road around 3 a.m. when struck by a northbound vehicle. Due to inclement weather, the victim's body was covered with a tarp at the scene. He succumbed to his injuries shortly after the collision.

• Date and Time: April 19, around 3 a.m.
• Location: 3400 block of Northwest Evangeline Thruway, Carencro, LA
• Victim Details: Unidentified white male pedestrian
• Suspect: Barrett Coleman, 42, of Lafayette
• Charges: Felony hit-and-run
• Additional Actions: Coleman returned to the scene twice but failed to provide aid or contact authorities

The Carencro Police Department is investigating the circumstances surrounding the fatal accident. Witnesses or anyone with information are encouraged to contact Carencro Police at (337) 896-6132. The investigation remains active as more details emerge.

Why Do Hit-and-Run Accidents Occur?

Hit-and-run incidents continue to rise across the United States, posing significant risks to vulnerable road users like pedestrians. Factors such as poor visibility, speeding, and driver distraction often contribute to these preventable tragedies.

According to the American Automobile Association (AAA), hit-and-run fatalities have surged by an average of 7.2% annually since 2009. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that pedestrian deaths account for about 17% of all traffic fatalities, with hit-and-runs exacerbating the issue.

Legal Insights on Hit-and-Run Investigations

In cases such as this involving pedestrian fatalities from hit-and-run crashes, thorough investigations are crucial to establishing accountability.

“Having the proper resources is extremely important to investigate a hit-and-run case and prove negligence,” said Candice Bond, managing partner at Bond Legal, and a national analyst for Newsline. “Road conditions, signage visibility, and road lighting are all possible contributing factors that are considered and must be thoroughly examined. These procedures are necessary for helping those who have lost a loved one receive the justice that they deserve.”

Added Bond, “The driver always has to take great care behind the wheel.”

Key takeaways from such analyses include:

• Comprehensive reviews of environmental factors like lighting and weather can uncover negligence.
• Families may pursue wrongful death claims to seek compensation for loss of companionship, pain, and suffering.
• Legal representation ensures updates on investigations and protects rights during emotional turmoil.

“The stress and sorrow can be extremely overwhelming after losing a loved one in an accident,” said Stefano Formica, of counsel with Bond Legal. “We understand just what families are forced to go through, and having their rights protected is vital. A wrongful death lawyer will stay updated on the official investigation and help ensure that their legal rights and best interests are protected.”

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