Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

GARYVILLE – James Wilson, 54, of Lutcher was arrested following a fatal hit-and-run crash that claimed the life of 63-year-old Kim Burton Fredericks of Garyville.

Shortly after 5 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 10, troopers from Louisiana State Police Troop B began investigating a hit-and-run crash involving a bicyclist on LA 54 northbound at Garyville Northern Street in St. John the Baptist Parish.

The initial investigation revealed the crash occurred as Fredericks was traveling southbound on the northbound shoulder of LA 54 near the intersection of Garyville Northern Street on a bicycle.  At the same time, Wilson was traveling in the same direction on LA 54 in a 2008 Ford F-150. For reasons still under investigation, the F-150 ran off the roadway to the right and struck the bicycle, causing Fredericks to be ejected.

Fredericks was transported to a nearby hospital where he later succumbed to his injuries. Through investigative measures, troopers were able to quickly locate Wilson at a nearby residence where he was placed under arrest. Wilson was booked into the St. John Parish Correctional Facility on charges of Felony Hit and Run, Negligent Homicide, Reckless Operation of a Motor Vehicle, Operating a Motor Vehicle with a Suspended License, No Insurance, Outstanding Warrant and Possession of Fictitious or Cancelled Plates. This crash remains under investigation, and no further information is available at this time.

Louisiana State Troopers would like to take this opportunity to remind motorists to always make good decisions while operating motor vehicles. Never drive while impaired, fatigued or distracted. Always ensure every occupant is properly restrained, pay close attention to recent changes in child passenger seat laws and follow all traffic laws. Taking simple precautions such as these can often mean the difference between life and death.