Child killed by vehicle in Lecompte parking lot
LECOMPTE, La. (WNTZ) – A 4-year-old child was killed Tuesday evening after being struck by a vehicle in a convenience store parking lot in Lecompte, according to the Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office.
Deputies responded to the scene in the 8000 block of U.S. Highway 71 South around 8:20 p.m. on Oct. 21 after receiving reports of a child being hit by a vehicle.
Upon arrival, deputies spoke with the child’s mother, who said the child had been taken to a local hospital by a family member. The child was pronounced dead at the hospital, authorities said.
Witnesses told investigators they did not see the child being struck but heard a loud noise before seeing the child lying on the ground. The driver of the vehicle initially left the scene but returned a short time later after being followed home by another witness who informed them of the incident.
Sheriff’s detectives and the Crime Scene Unit processed the scene as part of the ongoing investigation. The 30-year-old driver was detained, evaluated at the scene, and has been fully cooperative, deputies said.
Investigators noted that impairment does not appear to be a factor, though routine toxicology tests are pending.
Anyone with information related to the incident is asked to contact Detective Shannon Hanks with the Criminal Investigation Division at (318) 473-6727, the RPSO Main Office at (318) 473-6700, or Crime Stoppers of Cenla at (318) 443-7867.