Douglas Pritchett Bridge Accident Death: Beloved Resident has Died in Tragic Hit-and-Run Crash

The community of Bridge City, Louisiana, is mourning the tragic loss of Douglas Pritchett, 46, who was killed in a fatal hit-and-run crash on the morning of Wednesday, March 11, 2026. The incident occurred along Louisiana Highway 18 near Utah Beach Drive, leaving family, friends, and neighbors devastated by the sudden and heartbreaking loss.

According to Louisiana State Police Troop B, Pritchett was riding his bicycle westbound in the eastbound lanes of the highway when he was first struck by an unidentified vehicle traveling east. After the initial collision, the driver fled the scene. Moments later, Pritchett was struck again by an eastbound 2000 Chevrolet S-10.

Emergency responders from local fire and EMS units arrived quickly and attempted life-saving measures, but Pritchett suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities confirmed that the driver of the Chevrolet S-10 was not injured and tested negative for alcohol. Investigators also noted that Pritchett’s bicycle did not have visible lights at the time of the crash.

The tragic event has left the Bridge City community reeling as family, friends, and neighbors remember Douglas Pritchett as a valued member of the community. Law enforcement continues to investigate the hit-and-run portion of the crash and is urging anyone with information about the first vehicle involved to come forward to assist with the investigation.

Pritchett’s untimely death serves as a reminder of the importance of road safety for both drivers and cyclists, especially during early morning hours or low-visibility conditions. The community continues to support his family and honor his memory during this difficult time.