Former Rapides Parish Sheriff William E. Hilton died after a hit-and-run incident in Hineston earlier today.
Sheriff Mark Wood’s office reported that Hilton later died from the injuries he sustained.
Sheriff’s Dispatch received a report of a hit-and-run just before 1 PM. Deputies arrived and found Hilton with severe injuries. Emergency responders transported him by ambulance to a local hospital. He later died from those injuries.
Deputies obtained a description of the suspect vehicle, identified as a blue Nissan Moreno. Soon after, law enforcement located the vehicle traveling eastbound on Highway 28 near Leavines Road at a high rate of speed. Troopers and deputies attempted a traffic stop, but the suspect fled, leading to a pursuit.
The suspect continued eastbound at speeds over 100 miles per hour. Authorities then deployed spike strips, which stopped the vehicle near Highway 28 and Cloverleaf Boulevard. Officers took the suspect into custody without further incident. The investigation remains ongoing, and officials have not released additional details.
UrbanCast reported earlier on the police presence and pursuit along Highway 28. That activity has now been linked to this incident.
Sheriff Hilton served his community with dedication and leadership. His service made a lasting impact across Rapides Parish and beyond.
UrbanCast extends condolences to the Hilton family, his friends, and the Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office. The community is encouraged to keep them in their thoughts during this time.
Updates will be shared as more information becomes available.
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