Fatal crash on Chicot Park Road

According to Louisiana State Police, Michael Fontenot, 47, of Duson, was charged Thursday afternoon for DWI (first offense), careless operation and open container and was bonded out only six hours before his involvement in a crash on Highway 3402 (Chicot Park Road) that claimed the life of 52-year-old Arleen Soileau of Ville Platte.

State police report the crash occurred at approximately 5:30 p.m. Friday, January 30, when Fontenot crossed the center line in a curve and collided head-on with Soileau. Neither Fontenot nor Soileau were reportedly wearing seat belts at the time of the crash. Soileau was pronounced dead at the scene and Fontenot was transported to Alexandria with moderate injuries. State police believe impairment was a factor in the collision.

Once Fontenot is released from the hospital, he is expected to be transported to the Evangeline Parish Jail, where he will face charges of vehicular homicide, reckless operation, driving left of center, expired driver's license, no insurance, no seat belt and open container.