UPDATE

The pedestrian who was struck and killed on Seigen Lane last week has been identified by Louisiana State Police Troopers as Neil Yander, 52, of Pasadena, Texas.

Yander succumbed to injuries sustained in the crash and was pronounced deceased by hospital staff on Sunday, Sept. 30. No charges have been filed in connection with this crash.



Baton Rouge--Louisiana State Police Troop A investigated a crash last Tuesday night on Siegen Lane that left an unidentified pedestrian seriously injured.

The crash occurred Sept. 25 on Siegen at the intersection with Rieger Road shortly after 8 p.m., said TFC Russell G. Graham II. Troopers are unable to identify the pedestrian, and the investigation is ongoing, Graham said in a statement released last week.

Troopers’ preliminary investigation revealed that Joseph Maldonado, 27, of Baton Rouge was driving a 2011 Jeep Cherokee south on Siegen Lane in the right lane at the intersection of Rieger Road when he struck a white male walking in the roadway, Graham reported.

Maldonado steered right to avoid the pedestrian, but struck him with the left side of the Jeep.

The pedestrian was thrown into the air and came to rest in the middle of the intersection, said Graham. Maldonado brought his vehicle to a stop nearby.

Although Troopers did not suspect alcohol to have been a factor in the crash, Maldonado voluntarily submitted a breath sample that showed he had no detectable alcohol in his system.

Troopers were unable to secure a blood sample from the pedestrian due to the extent of his injuries. The investigation continues.

Crashes involving pedestrians can often be avoided by following some basic safety guidelines. Pedestrians should wear light-colored reflective clothing and should always avoid walking on the roadway in dark areas.

Pedestrians must also assume that approaching motorists cannot see them, especially at night.

Crossing roadways only in well-lit, designated areas and always walking facing traffic will enhance the safety for pedestrians.

Motorists must remain alert at all times and pay close attention to their surroundings and possible hazards ahead.