ST. TAMMANY PARISH, La. — The community is mourning the heartbreaking loss of 24-year-old Rodrigo Ornelas Jr. of Folsom, whose life was tragically cut short following a hit-and-run crash on LA Highway 40 near Blackwell Cemetery Road in the early hours of April 12, 2026.
According to a news release from Louisiana State Police Troop L, the crash occurred at approximately 12:30 a.m. as Ornelas Jr. was riding his bicycle eastbound along LA Highway 40 in a poorly lit area. At the same time, an unknown dark-colored sedan or small SUV was also traveling eastbound when it struck him before fleeing the scene.
Emergency responders arrived quickly and transported Ornelas Jr. to a nearby hospital for urgent medical treatment. Despite efforts by medical personnel, he later succumbed to his injuries, leaving family, friends, and the Folsom community devastated by the sudden loss.
Investigators noted that Ornelas Jr. was not wearing a helmet at the time of the crash, though he was dressed in light-colored clothing. His bicycle was equipped with reflectors but did not have lighting, which authorities say is required for nighttime riding under Louisiana law. A routine toxicology sample was collected as part of the investigation, which remains ongoing.
As troopers continue their efforts to identify the driver and vehicle involved, Louisiana State Police are urging anyone with information to come forward. Witnesses or individuals with relevant details are encouraged to contact Troop L at (985) 893-6250, submit an anonymous tip through the Louisiana State Police online reporting system, or call the LSP Fusion Center Hotline at 1-800-434-8007.
Authorities are also using this tragedy to remind the public about bicycle safety and visibility laws, emphasizing that bicyclists are considered vehicle operators under Louisiana law and must follow all roadway rules. Officials stressed the importance of proper lighting, reflective gear, and cautious riding—especially in low-light conditions where visibility is limited.
Rodrigo Ornelas Jr. is being remembered by loved ones as a young man whose life ended far too soon. His passing has left an irreplaceable void in the hearts of those who knew him, as the community now grieves a life lost in a tragic and senseless incident.
As the investigation continues, authorities remain committed to finding answers and holding those responsible accountable.
May Rodrigo Ornelas Jr. rest in peace, and may his memory continue to live on in the hearts of his family and community.
Leave a Reply