CALCASIEU PARISH, La. — A tragic early morning crash in Calcasieu Parish has claimed the life of 32-year-old Erick John of Lake Charles and led to the arrest of an impaired driver, according to a news release from Louisiana State Police Troop D.
The fatal crash occurred shortly before 6:00 a.m. on April 9, 2026, along Louisiana Highway 27 near the intersection of Louisiana Highway 397 in Bell City. Troopers responded to the scene and began an immediate investigation into the three-vehicle collision that left one man dead and several others injured.
Preliminary findings indicate that a 2022 Chevrolet Silverado, driven by 32-year-old Alfonso Arredondo of Port Neches, Texas, was traveling southbound on Highway 27. At the same time, a 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe was heading northbound, followed closely by a 2000 Buick Park Avenue driven by Erick John.
For reasons that remain under investigation, Arredondo’s vehicle crossed the centerline, striking both northbound vehicles. The Silverado sideswiped the Hyundai before also colliding with John’s Buick. Following the impact, Arredondo lost control of his vehicle, which left the roadway, entered a ditch, and overturned.
Erick John, who authorities confirmed was properly restrained at the time of the crash, sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. His sudden passing has left family, friends, and the Lake Charles community mourning a life lost far too soon.
The occupants of the Hyundai—its driver and four passengers—were all wearing seatbelts and survived the crash. They were transported to a nearby hospital with injuries described as minor to moderate.
During the course of the investigation, troopers observed signs that Arredondo was impaired. He was taken into custody at the scene and later booked into the Calcasieu Parish Correctional Center. Authorities have charged him with Vehicular Homicide, five counts of Vehicular Negligent Injury, Driving While Intoxicated (Second Offense), and Driving Left of Center.
As part of standard procedure in serious crashes, toxicology samples were collected from Arredondo and submitted for laboratory analysis. Results are pending as investigators continue to piece together the full circumstances surrounding the incident.
Louisiana State Police emphasized that impaired driving remains one of the leading causes of fatal and serious injury crashes across the state. Officials are urging all motorists to make responsible decisions behind the wheel—never drive under the influence, always wear seatbelts, and remain attentive at all times.
The crash remains under active investigation.
Anyone seeking additional information can contact Trooper Roy Jones with the Louisiana State Police Troop D Public Affairs Section at (337) 491-2511 or via email at Roy.Jones2@la.gov.
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