Leesville, LA (6/26/2024) – On May 22, 2024, at approximately 11:24 p.m., officers from the Leesville Police Department responded to a traffic accident involving a single vehicle and an individual on a scooter in the area of Hwy 171 between University Parkway and Fertitta Blvd.
The initial investigation revealed that 19-year-old Conner Saucier was traveling northbound in the left inside lane of Hwy 171 near the intersection of University Parkway when he struck 21-year-old Roderick Thomas, Jr., who was reported to be in the lane of travel on his scooter.
Officers noted that Thomas was wearing a dark-colored sweatshirt without any reflective gear. Saucier underwent a Standardized Field Sobriety Test (SFST) on the scene, which indicated no signs of impairment. Thomas sustained injuries from the collision and was transported to a medical facility for treatment. No evidence of criminal behavior on Saucier’s part was found at the scene, and no arrest or citation was issued at that time.
During the follow-up investigation, security video from a local business was obtained, and a search warrant was issued to retrieve data from Saucier’s vehicle. Additional interviews were conducted. The investigation revealed that Saucier had been traveling at approximately 63 mph in the left inside lane of Hwy 171 just before the impact with Thomas. Thomas, who was also traveling northbound on his scooter, appeared to be in the same lane. His scooter had a white light illuminating from the front, but no other lights or reflectors were observed.
Based on the findings, the Leesville Police Department obtained an arrest warrant for Conner Saucier on charges of Reckless Operation and Negligent Injuring. Saucier was arrested on June 26, 2024, and booked into the Vernon Parish Jail.
Chief Beth Westlake extended her gratitude to the Louisiana State Police for their assistance in the investigation. She also emphasized the importance of drivers adhering to speed limits and reminded those on scooters or bicycles to wear reflective clothing at night and follow all traffic laws to prevent such tragic incidents.
For more information, contact the Leesville Police Department @ 337-238-0331.
