UPDATE: Fatal Hit and Run on West Willow Street in Lafayette Under Investigation

A fatal hit-and-run crash on the 1300 block of West Willow Street has left the local Lafayette community in shock and authorities in an active search for the suspect.

UPDATE (10/6):

The Lafayette Police Department has identified the victim of a tragic hit-and-run accident that occurred on Thursday night. Details below.

On the evening of October 5, 2023, at precisely 8:31 p.m., Lafayette Police were dispatched to the scene following reports of a hit and run crash with major injuries. Unfortunately, on arrival, police discovered the deceased body of a female pedestrian.

Preliminary findings suggest that the woman had been walking westbound when she was hit by an unidentified white truck, also heading in the same direction. According to Lafayette Police, the truck sped off from the scene of the crash, continuing on West Willow Street toward Ambassador Caffery Parkway.

The Lafayette Police Department's Traffic Unit is leading the investigation into this tragic incident. Efforts are underway to identify both the female victim and the suspect responsible for the accident. The authorities are appealing to the public for assistance. Any witnesses or individuals possessing information related to the incident are strongly urged to reach out to the Lafayette Police Department or Lafayette CRIMESTOPPERS at 337-232-TIPS. The department assures that all calls will be treated with confidentiality, and the identity of informants will remain anonymous.

In the aftermath of the crash, a segment of West Willow Street, stretching from Calhoun Court to Aster Street, had been temporarily closed to facilitate the on-site investigation. However, an update from the police department has confirmed the reopening of all travel lanes on West Willow Street, with traffic conditions returning to normal.

As we await further updates, the hope is that the perpetrator will be swiftly brought to justice as we send our condolences to the family and loved ones of the victim.