Family Justice Center employee charged in deadly hit-and-run near Danziger Bridge

Authorities say Shermaine Cipio fled the scene after striking a pedestrian on Thursday morning.

Apr. 3, 2026 at 3:23pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An extreme close-up photograph of a shattered car side mirror reflecting the faint outline of a pedestrian crossing sign, creating a stark, gritty, investigative aesthetic through the use of harsh, direct flash lighting against a pitch-black background.The aftermath of a deadly hit-and-run crash near the Danziger Bridge exposes the grim reality of traffic safety challenges in New Orleans.New Orleans Today

A 43-year-old employee of the New Orleans Family Justice Center has been arrested and charged with felony hit-and-run and obstruction of justice in connection with a deadly crash that killed a pedestrian near the Danziger Bridge on Thursday morning. Police say Shermaine Cipio struck the victim while she was crossing the westbound lanes of Chef Menteur Highway and then fled the scene before turning herself in the following day.

Why it matters

The incident highlights ongoing challenges with traffic safety and hit-and-run crashes in New Orleans, which has seen a rise in pedestrian fatalities in recent years. The Family Justice Center also plays a critical role in supporting victims of domestic violence, making Cipio's alleged actions especially troubling.

The details

According to police, Cipio struck the unidentified female victim around 7:29 a.m. on Thursday as she was crossing the westbound lanes of Chef Menteur Highway in the 4900 block, near the Danziger Bridge. The victim was transported to a local hospital but later died from her injuries. Cipio initially fled the scene but later turned herself in to authorities on Friday.

  • The incident occurred around 7:29 a.m. on Thursday, April 3, 2026.
  • Cipio turned herself in to police on Friday, April 4, 2026.

The players

Shermaine Cipio

A 43-year-old employee of the New Orleans Family Justice Center who was arrested and charged with felony hit-and-run and obstruction of justice in connection with the deadly crash.

New Orleans Family Justice Center

A local organization that provides support and resources for victims of domestic violence in the New Orleans area.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We must hold all drivers accountable for their actions, especially when they flee the scene of a deadly crash.”

— Capt. Buddy Micheu, NOPD Traffic Division

What’s next

Cipio is expected to appear in court next week, where a judge will determine whether to grant her bail.

The takeaway

This tragic incident underscores the urgent need for improved traffic safety measures and harsher penalties for hit-and-run drivers in New Orleans, in order to protect vulnerable road users and hold all motorists accountable for their actions.