Alexandria, La. (4/16/2024) – Reports from multiple UrbanCast witnesses of a heavy police presence and pursuit Thursday morning have now been confirmed by the Alexandria Police Department.
Witnesses first told UrbanCast they observed numerous law enforcement units from the Alexandria Police Department, Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office, and Louisiana State Police traveling through the city and onto Interstate 49 South. Several also reported seeing spike strips deployed near the Airbase Road and Louisiana Highway 1 intersection.
According to an official release from Alexandria Police, the incident began on April 16, 2026, at approximately 10:30 a.m., when officers responded to the 1800 block of Harvard Street in reference to a domestic-related call.
During the investigation, officers determined that 30-year-old Austin Byrd allegedly committed a battery and stole a blue Honda Accord.
While en route, officers located the vehicle and initiated a pursuit. The chase moved through Alexandria and onto Interstate 49, matching what witnesses reported earlier to UrbanCast.
Police say the pursuit ended near Airbase Road and Louisiana Highway 1 after spike strips were successfully deployed. Byrd was taken into custody without further incident. No injuries were reported.
Byrd has been charged with Domestic Abuse Battery, Child Endangerment, Carjacking, and Aggravated Flight, along with multiple outstanding warrants.
Louisiana State Police previously confirmed to UrbanCast their troopers were assisting Alexandria Police during the incident. APD also thanked LSP and RPSO for their assistance in bringing the situation to a safe conclusion.
The investigation remains ongoing.
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Alexandria Police Detective Division at (318) 441-6416 or APD Dispatch at (318) 441-6559. Tips can also be emailed to APDDetectives@cityofalex.com. Anonymous tips can be submitted through Crime Stoppers of CenLa at (318) 443-7867 or through the P3 Tipster app.
Previous Article: APD releases Monroe Street stabbing details after 45-hour delay; suspect identified
