Fatal High-Speed Chase Ends in Tragedy: Man Dies After Losing Control and Crashing During Intense Pursuit with Kenner Police
KENNER, LA — A high-speed police pursuit that tore through the streets of Kenner in the early hours of Friday, July 11, 2025, ended in tragedy when a man lost his life following a violent crash.
The Kenner Police Department initiated the chase just before 2 a.m. after receiving reports of a vehicle driving erratically near the intersection of Williams Boulevard and Loyola Drive. Officers quickly attempted to stop the vehicle, but the driver fled, prompting a pursuit that spanned several neighborhoods.
Eyewitnesses reported seeing the vehicle weaving through traffic at dangerous speeds, with police vehicles closely following. Authorities estimate the chase reached speeds over 90 miles per hour, raising serious safety concerns for residents and drivers in the area.
The chase came to a devastating end near Veterans Memorial Boulevard, where the driver lost control and collided forcefully with a concrete barrier. The impact caused severe damage to the car and left the man critically injured.
Emergency medical personnel arrived promptly and transported the man to a nearby hospital. Despite their efforts, he succumbed to his injuries shortly after arrival.
Kenner Police Chief David Hendricks expressed profound sorrow over the loss. “Our hearts go out to the family of the deceased. This is a heartbreaking event for everyone involved. We will conduct a thorough and transparent investigation into the circumstances of this pursuit to ensure all protocols were properly followed.”
Police confirmed no other vehicles or pedestrians were harmed during the chase or crash. The department has launched an internal review to analyze the decisions made during the pursuit, including the justification and conduct of the chase itself.
The man’s family has been notified, and they are being offered support during this difficult time. Authorities have not yet released details about the motive behind the driver’s initial erratic behavior or whether any substances were involved.
High-speed police pursuits remain a controversial topic nationwide due to the inherent risks they pose not only to suspects but to officers and the general public. This tragic incident in Kenner underscores the delicate balance law enforcement must maintain between apprehending suspects and ensuring community safety.
Residents near the chase route described the event as alarming. “It sounded like a war zone,” said one witness. “Cars speeding past, sirens blaring — it was terrifying to watch.”
Officials urge anyone with additional information about the incident to contact the Kenner Police Department. Their investigation remains ongoing.
As Kenner grapples with this loss, questions about pursuit policies and enforcement practices are expected to come to the forefront in community and city leadership discussions.