On February 17, 2023 at approximately 2:45 A.M. Deputies with the Evangeline Parish Sheriff's Office were dispatched to W. Park Rd. near Mamou in reference to a fatal motor vehicle crash involving one vehicle.  Upon arrival, Deputies observed a male subject by the name of Micheal Bell B/M DOB 07/19/1989 of Mamou on the passenger side of the vehicle deceased due to his injuries.  During that time, there was no driver at the scene.

Later that day, Deputies learned that the suspect (Thaddeus Thompson) checked into Acadian Medical Center in Eunice where he was treated for injuries, he sustained during the motor vehicle crash.  The suspect advised he was riding as a passenger with the deceased and that they lost control on the roadway after leaving a bar.

During the investigation, it was discovered through DNA evidence and the injuries sustained by the suspect that he was in fact the driver of the vehicle during the fatal crash.  Once the suspect learned that the victim was deceased, he fled the scene by unknown means in order to avoid authorities.  During the end of the investigation on March 20, 2024, the suspect (Thaddeus Thompson) was arrested and charged with One Count of Hit and Run and One Count of Negligent Homicide.  He is currently being held at the Evangeline Parish Jail.  His bond is $85,000.00.          

As always, Sheriff Charles R. Guillory and the Evangeline Parish Sheriff's Office is seeking information on criminal activity and urges the public to contact their Investigation Department via phone at 337-363-2161 or through the agency's website at www.evangelineparishsheriff.org.  Any person reporting information will remain anonymous. All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty.