Folsom bicyclist killed in hit-and-run

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A 24-year-old Folsom, Louisiana resident named Rodrigo Ornelas Jr. was fatally struck by a car in a hit-and-run incident on Highway 40 in the early hours of Sunday, April 12. The driver of the dark-colored sedan or small SUV that hit Ornelas while he was riding his bicycle fled the scene, leaving Ornelas with serious injuries that later proved fatal.

Why it matters

Hit-and-run incidents are an ongoing public safety concern, especially in areas with poor lighting and high-speed roads where vulnerable road users like bicyclists are at greater risk. This tragedy highlights the need for improved infrastructure, driver education, and law enforcement efforts to prevent such senseless loss of life.

The details

According to Louisiana State Police, the crash occurred around 12:30 a.m. on Highway 40 at Blackwell Cemetery Road. Ornelas was riding his bicycle eastbound on the highway in a poorly lit area when he was struck by an unknown dark-colored sedan or small SUV, also traveling eastbound. The driver of the vehicle fled the scene, leaving Ornelas with serious injuries. He was transported to a local hospital where he later died.

• The crash occurred around 12:30 a.m. on Sunday, April 12, 2026.
• Ornelas later died from his injuries at the hospital.

What’s next

Louisiana State Police are actively searching for the dark-colored sedan or SUV involved in the hit-and-run and are urging anyone with information about the incident to come forward.