Fatal Crash in Calcasieu Parish Leads to Impaired Driver Arrest
Bell City, LA — On April 9, 2026, shortly before 6:00 a.m., Louisiana State Police responded to a three-vehicle crash on Louisiana Highway 27 near Louisiana Highway 397 that resulted in one fatality.
According to authorities, 32-year-old Erick John of Lake Charles was pronounced dead at the scene. A preliminary investigation revealed that a 2022 Chevrolet Silverado, driven by Alfonso Arredondo, 32, of Port Neches, TX, was traveling south when he crossed the centerline and sideswiped both a northbound 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe and John’s 2000 Buick Park Avenue.
Witnesses reported that after the initial collision, Arredondo lost control of the Silverado, exited the roadway, entered a ditch, and overturned. John, who was wearing a seatbelt, suffered fatal injuries. The driver and four passengers from the Hyundai were transported to a local hospital with minor to moderate injuries.
Authorities noted that Arredondo showed signs of impairment and was arrested at the scene. He faces multiple charges including Vehicular Homicide, five counts of Vehicular Negligent Injury, Second Offense Driving While Intoxicated, and Driving Left of Center. Toxicology samples have been submitted for analysis as part of the ongoing investigation.
Louisiana State Police remind motorists that impaired driving is a leading cause of serious accidents, urging responsible decisions to save lives.
For more information, contact Trooper Roy Jones, Louisiana State Police, Public Affairs Section – Troop D at (337) 491-2511 or Roy.Jones2@la.gov.