Aggrostats

The crash occurred on Nevils Bluff Road west of Louisiana Highway 383 near Kinder in Allen Parish when a 1995 Chevrolet Silverado driven by 37-year-old Brent Hetzler of Westlake crossed the center line of the road. The driver of the other vehicle reacted by driving to the shoulder of the road, sounding the horn, and stopping in an effort to avoid a crash. Hetzler, who was texting while driving, drove his Silverado into the front of the other vehicle causing minor damage to both vehicles.

Troopers observed signs of impairment on the part of Hetzler and he would later test over the legal limit for alcohol. In addition, the vehicle Hetzler was driving was equipped with an ignition interlock device which requires the driver to blow into the device to permit operation of the vehicle. Hetzler had disabled the device.

Hetzler was arrested and charged with DWI fifth offense (this arrest includes child endangerment), tampering with an interlock device, driving left of center, texting while driving, and no seat belt (Hetzler and 8-year-old passenger). Hetzler was booked into the Allen Parish Jail.

Impaired driving and distracted driving are leading causes of crashes in our state. Combing the two significantly increases the likelihood of a crash. While impaired driving is never acceptable behavior, driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs with children in the vehicle carries enhanced penalties under Louisiana state law. To report impaired drivers, motorists are encouraged to dial *LSP (*577) from their cellular phone or to contact their local law enforcement agency.

Contact Information:

Sgt. James Anderson
Louisiana State Police
Public Affairs Section
Office: (337) 491-2932
james.l.anderson@la.gov
www.LSP.org
www.facebook.com/LouisianaStatePolice