TROOP I NEWS RELEASE
January 27, 2024
Port Barre – Shortly after 8:30 p.m., on Friday, January 26, 2024, Louisiana State Police Troop I was notified of a hit-and-run crash involving a bicyclist that occurred on Louisiana Highway 103 near Alex Stoute Road, north of Port Barre. The crash claimed the life of 54-year-old Daniel Craig Leger of Port Barre.
The initial investigation revealed Leger was traveling north on LA 103 near the fog line when his bicycle was struck from behind by an unknown northbound vehicle. The impact caused Leger to be ejected from the bicycle. The unknown vehicle continued northbound on LA 103 as it fled from the scene. Leger was wearing dark-colored clothing, and the bicycle was equipped with a red flashing LED light.
Leger was transported to a local hospital, where he ultimately succumbed to his injuries. Impairment is unknown at this time, but a standard toxicology sample was submitted for analysis.
Troopers urge anyone with any information to contact Louisiana State Police Troop I at (337) 262-5880, or their local law enforcement agency. No piece of information should be considered insignificant.
In addition to the option above, citizens can anonymously report information through the Louisiana State Police online reporting system by visiting https://dpsweb.dps.louisiana.gov/suspicious.nsf/WebForm?OpenForm or calling the LSP Fusion Center Hotline at 1-800-434-8007.
Troop I has investigated 2 fatal crashes resulting in 2 deaths in 2024.
Contact Information:
S/T Thomas Gossen
Louisiana State Police
Troop I Public Affairs
Office: (337) 262-5880
thomas.gossen@la.com
A Soul Loved by Many
Craig Leger was well-known and well-loved in his community. He always had a smile to share and could be easily found on the sidelines at the local football games on Friday nights. Leger, also referred to as ‘Lil Craig’ would frequently lend a hand around his community whether he was assisting with little league baseball practices or volunteering his time at local benefits and assisting with the police department.
Craig was on his way home Friday night after leaving the funeral home where he was paying his respects to another community member who recently passed when he was struck by a vehicle. The suspect is still at large.
The family is requesting assistance from the public to help with his burial costs and have set up a Go Fund Me page.
Donations can also be made directly to the Funeral home towards Craig Leger’s account by contacting Sibille Funeral Home at 337-948-6523 Monday-Friday or dropped off at the donation box created for Leger at Port Barre Police Department.
