Fatal Pedestrian Crash in St. Landry Parish Under Investigation by Louisiana State Police
ST. LANDRY PARISH, LA – A tragic accident late Tuesday night has prompted a full investigation by Louisiana State Police after a pedestrian was struck and killed on LA Highway 31 (Creswell Lane) near Pebble Road in St. Landry Parish. The incident, which occurred just before 10:00 p.m. on July 2, 2025, has left the community shaken and raised serious concerns about road safety and impaired driving.
According to preliminary reports from Louisiana State Police Troop I, the pedestrian was walking in the southbound lane of the highway when they were struck by a 2015 Mazda CX-9. The vehicle, driven by 32-year-old Cody Leger of Arnaudville, was also traveling southbound when the fatal collision occurred. Tragically, the pedestrian sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities have not yet been able to identify the victim, and efforts are ongoing to confirm their identity and notify next of kin.
Leger and an unnamed passenger in the Mazda were both wearing seatbelts at the time of the crash and escaped without physical injury. However, troopers noted signs of impairment in Leger, leading to his arrest for first-offense Driving While Intoxicated (DWI), a violation under Louisiana Revised Statute 14:98. As part of the ongoing investigation, toxicology samples were collected from both Leger and the deceased pedestrian to determine whether alcohol or drugs were contributing factors in the crash.
The deadly incident has once again highlighted the deadly consequences of impaired driving and the vulnerability of pedestrians on rural and poorly lit roadways. Louisiana State Police emphasized that impaired driving continues to be a leading cause of fatal crashes across the state. They urge all drivers to make responsible choices by designating a sober driver, using rideshare options, or staying off the roads if under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Troopers are also making a public appeal for assistance in identifying the deceased pedestrian. Anyone who may have seen the individual walking along LA Highway 31 that night or who has relevant information about the crash is encouraged to contact Troop I at 337-262-5880. Additionally, anonymous tips can be submitted to the Louisiana State Police Fusion Center Hotline at 1-800-434-8007, or online through official state police channels.
As investigators work to piece together the details of the crash, the community mourns a life lost and reflects on the importance of safe driving practices. The outcome of the toxicology reports, along with any new evidence from eyewitnesses or surveillance footage, will be critical in determining the next steps in the legal process.
Louisiana State Police remind the public that every fatal crash is more than just a statistic — it is a tragedy that leaves families, friends, and entire communities forever changed.