Former Sheriff William Earl Hilton killed in hit-and-run crash Monday

Former Rapides County Sheriff William Earl Hilton was struck and killed by a car in a hit-and-run crash in the Hineston area early Monday, according to the sheriff’s office.

The sheriff’s office confirmed Hilton’s death just after 6 p.m. and said “the facts of the incident are still under investigation.”

“Sheriff Hilton’s leadership, dedication, and service to our community have left a lasting impact, and we know this loss will be felt across many counties, states, and the nation.”

The sheriff’s office, which included an “ongoing and complex investigation” in its initial news report, did not disclose the name of the person taken into custody. This was reiterated in the statement announcing Hilton’s death.

A report of a hit-and-run crash “where the suspect allegedly ran over the victim and intentionally fled the scene” came in just before 1 p.m., according to the release.

Hilton was taken to hospital by helicopter.

No new date: Federal trial of 5 men accused in Cenla visa fraud scheme continued

Rodemacher Lake accident: NTSB expected to be at Boyce plane crash site Monday

‘He ruined everything’: Prison sentence for former Louisiana soldier

The suspect was driving a blue Nissan Moreno and was driving on Leavines Road, La. He was seen “traveling eastbound at a high rate of speed” on Highway 28 West. The driver was not stopping and was driving at speeds in excess of 100 mph.

La on Cloverleaf Boulevard near the Walmart Supercenter. Spike strips installed at 28 West. After passing over them, the driver stopped and was detained.

Announcing Hilton’s death, the sheriff’s office urged people to “keep his family, friends, and the RPSO family in your thoughts and prayers as we navigate this difficult time together.”

This article was first published on Alexandria Town Talk: Former Rapides Sheriff William Earl Hilton killed in hit-and-run crash