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Baton Rouge – On July 8, 2023, shortly after 8:30 p.m., Troopers with Louisiana State Police Troop A began investigating a three-vehicle crash involving a pedestrian on US 61 near LA 964 in East Baton Rouge Parish. The crash ultimately claimed the life of 40-year-old Jacob Perez of Zachary.   

The preliminary investigation revealed that Mr. Perez was struck by an unknown vehicle while walking in the northbound lanes of US 61, just south of LA 964.  The unknown vehicle fled the scene of the crash.  Sometime later a 2022 Chevrolet Traverse and a 2019 BMW X3, both traveling in the left lane, struck Perez as he was lying in the roadway and unavoidable.  Perez suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene.  Standard toxicology samples were obtained from Perez and both drivers and will be submitted for scientific analysis.

 This crash remains under investigation as Troopers are still working to identity the driver and the vehicle that fled the scene. If anyone has information regarding this crash, please contact Louisiana State Police – Troop A at 225-754-8500.  

 Pedestrians are urged to maintain a heightened level of awareness while walking near the road. Simple precautions like wearing reflective materials, avoiding distractions, and walking a safe distance from travel lanes while facing oncoming traffic could help prevent many pedestrian-related crashes. Troopers would also like to remind drivers of the consequences of hit-and-run driving. The crime of felony hit-and-run driving when death or serious bodily injury occurs, can result in a fine up to five thousand dollars and up to ten years in prison.