Lafayette Woman Killed in Tragic Hit-and-Run on University Avenue; Driver Sought by Authorities

Lafayette Woman Killed in Tragic Hit-and-Run on University Avenue; Driver Sought by Authorities

LAFAYETTE, La. — A quiet Wednesday night in Lafayette turned tragic when a woman was fatally struck by a vehicle in a suspected hit-and-run while she was walking across University Avenue, authorities confirmed. The victim, whose identity has not yet been officially released pending notification of next of kin, was pronounced dead at the scene.

The Lafayette Police Department responded to the incident shortly before 10:00 p.m., following multiple 911 calls from witnesses who reported a pedestrian being struck near the intersection of University Avenue and Carmel Drive, a busy corridor often trafficked by both drivers and pedestrians. By the time first responders arrived, the driver of the vehicle had fled the scene, leaving behind only a trail of debris and heartbreak.

A Tragic Scene on a Busy Street

According to preliminary reports, the victim was attempting to cross University Avenue when she was struck by a vehicle traveling at a high rate of speed. Witnesses at the scene told police that the driver never slowed down, did not attempt to render aid, and continued driving southbound after impact.

“It happened so fast,” said a witness who asked not to be identified. “One second she was crossing, and the next — she was just gone. And the car didn’t even stop. It was horrifying.”

Emergency medical personnel arrived within minutes, but the woman had suffered severe trauma and could not be revived. She was declared deceased on the scene by Lafayette Fire Department medics.

Police Investigation Underway

Lafayette Police have launched a full investigation into the fatal incident and are urging the public to come forward with any information that may help identify the vehicle or driver responsible. Detectives are reviewing surveillance footage from nearby businesses and traffic cameras and have recovered several pieces of debris at the crash site that may be tied to the suspect vehicle.

“This is a heartbreaking and senseless tragedy,” said Corporal Matthew Benoit, spokesperson for the Lafayette Police Department. “Leaving the scene of an accident — especially one that results in a loss of life — is a serious crime, and we will not rest until we identify and apprehend the driver responsible.”

Police believe the suspect vehicle may have sustained visible damage to the front end or windshield. Investigators are asking local body shops, mechanics, and residents to report any suspicious vehicle damage that has occurred since Wednesday night.

Anyone with information is urged to contact the Lafayette Police Department Traffic Division at (337) 291-8600 or Crime Stoppers at (337) 232-TIPS. Callers can remain anonymous.

Remembering the Victim

Though authorities have not publicly released the victim’s name, community members say she was a local resident in her mid-30s, known for her kind spirit and active presence in the neighborhood. Friends and neighbors who gathered near the scene on Thursday morning left flowers, candles, and handwritten notes, creating a growing memorial for a life lost far too soon.

“She walked this stretch of road almost every day,” said a neighbor. “She was just trying to get home. This shouldn’t have happened.”

Residents also voiced frustration and concern about pedestrian safety along University Avenue, a road frequently cited for its speeding traffic, poor lighting, and lack of safe crossings.

A Call for Change

In the aftermath of the fatal hit-and-run, local advocates and neighborhood leaders are calling for immediate improvements to pedestrian infrastructure in the area. Proposals include better lighting, marked crosswalks, speed enforcement measures, and pedestrian-activated signals at high-risk intersections.

“We can’t let her death be in vain,” said Councilwoman Linda Thibodeaux, who represents the district. “We need to take action to make sure this never happens again — not to another mother, daughter, or neighbor.”

What’s Next

As police continue their investigation, the Lafayette community is preparing to hold a candlelight vigil in memory of the victim on Friday evening at 7:00 p.m., near the site of the crash. Organizers say the vigil will be both a tribute to the victim’s life and a show of unity against the violence of reckless driving and the trauma left behind by hit-and-run incidents.

Conclusion

The hit-and-run that took the life of a Lafayette woman on University Avenue has left an indelible mark on the community. While police work tirelessly to bring the driver to justice, the victim’s loved ones and neighbors are left grappling with grief, anger, and a renewed call for safer streets.

Anyone who may have witnessed the incident, seen a vehicle fleeing the area, or has knowledge of a vehicle with recent front-end damage is urged to contact authorities immediately.

Every tip could bring the family one step closer to justice.