Alexandria driver arrested after two-vehicle collision fatally injures elderly man in wheelchair

ALEXANDRIA, La. (WNTZ) – A 76-year-old man was killed Monday night after his motorized wheelchair was struck in a collision on Hudson Boulevard, according to the Alexandria Police Department.

The crash happened around 8:45 p.m. in the 3100 block of Hudson Boulevard and involved two vehicles and the wheelchair. Police said the wheelchair’s operator, identified as Benny Bowie, 76, of Alexandria, was pronounced dead at the scene.

The driver of the van that struck the wheelchair, Kevin Batiste Sr., 52, was arrested on charges of vehicular homicide, reckless operation, driving under suspension, and second-offense DWI. Batiste was booked into Rapides Detention Center 1 at 12:56 am, August 26, 2025, and is held with a bond for $251,000.00.

Investigators said a second vehicle, described as a dark-colored Dodge Charger with heavy front-end damage, also was involved, but fled the scene before officers arrived. Police are continuing to search for the vehicle.

The investigation remains ongoing.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Alexandria Police Detective Division at (318) 441-6416, APD Dispatch at (318) 441-6559, or email APDDetectives@cityofalex.com.

Tips can also be submitted anonymously through Crime Stoppers of CenLa at (318) 443-7867 or the P3 Tipster app at www.p3tips.com/community/mobile. A cash reward may be available.