A fatal crash in St. Landry Parish is under investigation after a bicycle and a Ford van collided on Tuesday evening. According to the Louisiana State Police release, 68-year-old Dallas Pitre of Opelousas was killed when his bicycle was struck by a commercial van on US Highway 190 near Louisiana Highway 35.
Preliminary reports indicate that Pitre was riding west in the eastbound lane when the collision occurred shortly before 8 p.m. He was not wearing a helmet and died at the scene from his injuries. The driver of the Ford van, who was properly restrained, was not injured.
The driver cooperated with law enforcement and provided a breath sample that showed no presence of alcohol. A routine toxicology sample from Pitre has been submitted for analysis as part of the ongoing investigation.
The Louisiana State Police reminded the public that bicycles are classified as vehicles under state law, and cyclists are required to follow the same traffic rules as motor vehicle operators. Authorities advise the use of proper lighting and reflective or brightly colored clothing to increase visibility, especially in low-light conditions. Additional information on bicycle safety can be found on the Louisiana Highway Safety Commission’s website.
