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LAPLACE — An 18-wheeler struck a utility pole near Hancock and Williamsburg inside the Cambridge subdivision at about 5:30 p.m. Thursday evening, leaving behind damage and a widespread power outage.

District Six Councilwoman Tonia Schnyder said power was restored to the area at approximately 1:30 a.m. Thursday. Later that morning, Entergy crews finished work on power lines. Schnyder said U.S. Xpress, the company behind the 18-wheeler, is taking responsibility for the driver’s actions by sending an insurance adjuster to meet with residents who sustained damage to their homes.

The driver of the 18-wheeler did not stop after the incident. However, the driver was ticketed after making it to U.S. 51.

Large vehicles on the roadway have been a major concern among District Six residents, according to Schnyder. Section 113-678 of St. John Parish’s Code of Ordinances prohibits the off-street parking of heavy commercial vehicles in a residential area. Heavy commercial vehicles may park in residential areas if actively performing services, making a delivery or picking up materials or merchandise.

Schnyder recommends residents who notice a problem with large vehicles speak to the owner of the vehicle first. If this is not possible, residents should call St. John Parish Code Enforcement or the St. John Sheriff’s Office.

Other District Six community concerns cited at a recent town hall meeting included motorists running stop signs and inoperable vehicles being parked on the sides of the road. Sheriff Mike Tregre heightened police presence in the area to address the stop sign concern. Additionally, Schnyder reported several inoperable vehicles have been removed from the roadway.