Former Louisiana Police Officer to Stand Trial for Deadly High-Speed Chase
A trial date has been locked in for a former Louisiana police officer, David Cauthron, who’s facing serious charges linked to a tragic incident. The event in question occurred on New Year’s Eve in Brusly, and it’s a somber tale of a high-speed chase gone terribly wrong.
When is the Trial?
Mark your calendars for March 18, 2024, because that’s when the trial begins, as per WAFB-TV.
What Are the Charges?
David Cauthron, aged 42 and a former member of the Addis police department, is facing a list of charges. There are two counts of manslaughter, alongside one count each of aggravated obstruction of a highway, negligent injury, malfeasance in office, and reckless operation of a vehicle.
How Did It All Start?
The whole saga kicked off in Baton Rouge, where a 24-year-old suspect nabbed a car after breaking into a home and snatching the keys. As if that wasn’t bad enough, things took a darker turn as a high-speed chase unfolded.
The Terrifying Chase
During the chase that spread across several parishes, the suspect showed no regard for traffic rules. Running red lights and hitting speeds of 110 mph, this was a recipe for disaster, as detailed in police documents.
The Tragic Crash
As the chase neared its climax in the town of Brusly, Cauthron’s police cruiser collided with another vehicle. This collision resulted in the tragic deaths of Maggie Dunn, 17, and Caroline Gill, 16. Another person in the vehicle was left with critical injuries, according to The Advocate.
The Suspect’s Escape and Capture
Following the crash, the suspect managed to escape by driving the stolen car back across the Mississippi River. Thankfully, his run came to an end when the vehicle stalled. The suspect was then charged with two counts of manslaughter, home invasion, vehicle theft, and aggravated flight, according to the police.
The Aftermath
In the wake of these events, David Cauthron submitted his resignation from the police force on January 9. The Addis Town Council unanimously voted to accept his resignation on February 1.
So, mark your calendars for the trial, which promises to shed light on this tragic incident that unfolded during a high-speed chase on New Year’s Eve.