Laderica Stewart Obituary, Death – A woman has been arrested in connection with a fatal hit-and-run crash that took place on Plank Road in Baton Rouge. The Baton Rouge Police Department reported that 34-year-old Taquencya Harris is facing multiple charges following the incident, which occurred early Sunday, March 30.
Harris has been charged with two counts of death or serious bodily injury, two counts of hit-and-run driving, obstruction of justice, and careless operation. The charges stem from a crash that left one person dead and three others injured.
According to police, the victims were attempting to cross Plank Road near Chippewa Street when they were struck by a vehicle. The victim who died from the crash has been identified as 22-year-old Laderica Stewart. Harris, the driver of the vehicle involved, allegedly fled the scene after hitting the victims.
The Baton Rouge Police Department’s investigation into the crash led to Harris’ arrest on Monday, April 7. She was taken into custody and booked into the East Baton Rouge Parish Prison. Police say that Harris’ actions following the crash, including leaving the scene and allegedly attempting to obstruct the investigation, played a role in the charges brought against her.
Details about the crash itself indicate that the victims were on foot, trying to cross the busy Plank Road when they were struck. The police have not released extensive information about the other individuals involved, such as their identities or the extent of their injuries. However, it is clear that this was a serious incident, with one person losing their life and others suffering injuries.
The hit-and-run aspect of the crash has added to the severity of the case. Fleeing the scene of an accident is a criminal offense, especially when it results in serious injuries or death. In this case, Harris’ alleged actions after the collision are considered to be particularly reckless, which is reflected in the multiple charges she faces.
Harris’ arrest marks a significant step forward in the investigation, which has likely provided some answers for the victims’ families and the community. However, police are still gathering additional information and details about the crash to ensure that all aspects of the case are fully understood. Investigators are also working to understand whether there were any other factors that may have contributed to the crash, such as speed, alcohol, or other substances.
The Baton Rouge community, particularly those who knew the victims, is mourning the loss of Laderica Stewart, whose life was tragically cut short in the accident. The other victims involved in the crash are also in the thoughts of the local community as they recover from their injuries.
The incident has also raised concerns about pedestrian safety on Plank Road, a busy thoroughfare in Baton Rouge. As police continue their investigation, it’s likely that discussions around road safety and ways to protect pedestrians will become a focal point for local officials and residents.
As the case progresses, Harris will face the legal consequences of her actions. The charges she faces carry significant penalties, particularly the counts related to death or serious bodily injury. If convicted, Harris could face years in prison, depending on the outcome of the trial and the specific details of the case.
The arrest of Taquencya Harris has brought some sense of accountability to the victims’ families, but the road to justice is far from over. The community will be closely following the developments in the case as it moves through the legal system.
In the meantime, Baton Rouge Police are continuing their work to ensure that the investigation is thorough and complete. They have urged anyone with information about the incident to come forward and assist in the case, as additional witnesses or details could help provide clarity on what exactly happened that morning.
The case has also sparked a wider conversation about the importance of both pedestrian safety and accountability in hit-and-run accidents. Many are asking what measures can be taken to prevent similar incidents in the future and to hold those responsible for these types of crashes accountable for their actions.
As Harris remains in custody, awaiting her next court appearance, the city of Baton Rouge reflects on the tragedy and the lessons that can be learned from such devastating events.
