Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

Update – As a result of local media coverage and tips from the public, Troopers have made an arrest in the fatal hit and run crash that took the life of 30-year-old Leah Tatman of Baton Rouge. Shortly after 3:00 p.m. on March 6, 2022, Troopers arrested 40-year-old Jarrett Rachal of Prairieville. Rachal was booked into the East Baton Rouge Parish Jail for Felony Hit & Run resulting in Death and Driving Under Suspension.

 

Troopers Seek Hit and Run Vehicle That Killed Pedestrian in East Baton Rouge Parish

 

Baton Rouge – Shortly after 10:00 p.m. on January 23, 2022, Troopers from Louisiana State Police Troop A began investigating a fatal crash involving a pedestrian on LA Hwy 73 (Jefferson Hwy.) south of LA Hwy 948 (Highland Rd.) in East Baton Rouge Parish. The crash claimed the life of 30-year-old Leah Tatman of Baton Rouge.

 

The initial investigation revealed the crash occurred as Tatman was walking near the northbound fog line of LA Hwy 73. At the same time, a suspected Dodge Ram was traveling north of LA Hwy 73 and struck Tatman. 

 

Tatman sustained serious injuries as a result of the crash. She was transported to a local hospital, where she ultimately succumbed to her injuries. As part of the ongoing investigation, a toxicology sample was obtained from Tatman for analysis.

 

Based off of evidence collected at the scene, Troopers believe the vehicle that struck Tatman is a 2018-2020 Dodge Ram 2500 or 3500 model. After striking Tatman, the passenger side mirror housing was dislodged from the vehicle and left on the scene. 

 

This crash remains under investigation, and Troopers ask that anyone with information regarding this crash contact Louisiana State Police Troop A at 225-754-8500.