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Slidell – Sunday morning, shortly after 2:30 a.m., Troopers from Louisiana State Police Troop L began investigating a hit and run fatal crash on Interstate 10 near LA Hwy 433 in St. Tammany Parish. The crash claimed the life of 27-year-old Cordarrell Rudolph of Slidell.

 The preliminary investigation revealed that Rudolph was wearing dark clothing and walking in the roadway on Interstate 10 eastbound. At the same time, a 2021 Kia K5 was eastbound on Interstate 10. For reasons still under investigation, the Kia struck Rudolph. After striking Rudolph, the Kia fled the scene. During the investigation, Troopers identified 24-year-old Anthawan Riley Jr. of Suffolk, Virginia as the driver.

 Rudolph sustained fatal injuries as a result of the crash. He was pronounced deceased on the scene. Neither Riley Jr. nor the two passengers sustained injuries as a result of the crash. As part of the ongoing investigation, a routine toxicology sample was obtained from Rudolph for analysis. Troopers arrested Riley Jr. and he will be booked at the St. Tammany Parish Jail for violating L.R.S. 14:100 Hit and Run (Felony). This crash remains under investigation.

 Pedestrians and motorists are urged to remain vigilant while on roadways and pay close attention to their surroundings. Crashes involving pedestrians can often be avoided by following some basic safety guidelines. Pedestrians should wear light-colored or reflective clothing and should avoid walking on the roadway in dark areas. Pedestrians must assume that approaching motorists cannot see them, especially at night. Pedestrians should cross roadways in well-lit, designated areas and should always walk facing traffic. These simple steps can enhance safety for pedestrians.