Carl Stewart, 50, a New Orleans resident, died after being struck by a car early Friday while crossing Jefferson Highway near Clearview Parkway in Jefferson Parish. Troopers say the collision happened shortly before 6 a.m. as Stewart rode his bicycle across the westbound lanes; he was taken to a hospital and died the following day. The driver of a 2003 Mercedes-Benz C240 was not injured.
What troopers say
According to FOX 8, Louisiana State Police Troop B told the station the Mercedes was traveling west in the left lane when it struck Stewart as he crossed the westbound lanes on May 1. Troopers told the station the bicycle had no visible lights or reflective items at the time of the crash and that the driver provided a voluntary breath sample that showed no alcohol. A toxicology sample was collected for analysis as the investigation continues. Officials have not announced any charges.
State law and safety
Louisiana requires drivers to leave at least three feet when passing a bicyclist, a rule codified in La. Rev. Stat. §32:76.1, and the Department of Transportation and Development outlines equipment and visibility guidance for riders. The troopers’ note that Stewart’s bike had no lights or reflectors underscores the danger of riding on high-speed arterials before dawn, when visibility is limited. Advocates and traffic engineers say stronger enforcement of equipment rules and better lighting or protected bike space can reduce these kinds of tragedies.
Investigation and local context
Troop B continues to investigate and has said toxicology results will be released when available, per FOX 8. The case follows other deadly collisions in Jefferson Parish that have put a spotlight on road design and driver behavior, as Hoodline recently noted in a separate West Bank case that resulted in a prison sentence (Marrero driver gets 2½ years). Troopers urge anyone with information to contact Louisiana State Police Troop B as the probe continues.
