Driver Arrested for Fatal Hit and Run; Parents Arrested for Obstruction
Folsom – Troopers with the Louisiana State Police Troop L have continued to investigate the hit-and-run crash that resulted in the death of 24-year-old Rodrigo Ornelas Jr. of Folsom, which occurred on April 12, 2026. The investigation resulted in the arrests of three individuals from Washington Parish.
Through investigative means, Troopers identified the vehicle involved in the crash as a 2019 Buick Encore and determined that 34-year-old Megan J. Kyle of Bogalusa was driving the vehicle when it struck Ornelas Jr. Further investigation, including multiple interviews, determined that her parents, 62-year-old Monica V. Wildebrandt of Franklinton and 63-year-old Robert J. Kyle of Bogalusa, knowingly and willfully attempted to conceal evidence related to the crime.
On August 6, 2026, Troopers arrested Megan J. Kyle, Monica V. Wildebrandt, and Robert J. Kyle. Megan was booked into the St. Tammany Parish Correctional Facility for Felony Hit and Run. Monica and Robert were booked into the Washington Parish Correctional Facility on charges of Obstruction of Justice, Injuring Public Records, and Accessory After the Fact.
Louisiana State Police remains committed to thoroughly investigating every hit-and-run crash and holding those responsible accountable for their actions. Leaving the scene of a crash is a serious crime that only compounds the tragedy for victims and their families. Troopers will continue to use every available investigative resource to identify those involved and pursue justice on behalf of the victims and their loved ones.
Follow Up Release:
April 23, 2026
*UPDATE* Bicyclist Killed in St. Tammany Parish Hit-and-Run Crash
Folsom – Troopers with the Louisiana State Police Troop L have continued to investigate the hit-and-run crash that resulted in the death of 24-year-old Rodrigo Ornelas Jr. of Folsom, which occurred on April 12, 2026. Based on evidence located at the scene and review of local camera footage in the area, Troopers believe the vehicle to be a 2017-2020 Buick Encore with damage to its front right bumper and hood.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Louisiana State Police Troop L at (985) 893-6250. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through the Louisiana State Police online reporting system or by calling the LSP Fusion Center Hotline at 1-800-434-8007.
Initial Release:
April 13, 2026
Bicyclist Killed in St. Tammany Parish Hit-and-Run Crash
Folsom – On April 12, 2026, at approximately 12:30 a.m., Troopers from Louisiana State Police Troop L began investigating a serious injury hit-and-run crash involving a bicyclist on LA Highway 40 at Blackwell Cemetery Road in St. Tammany Parish. The crash ultimately claimed the life of 24-year-old Rodrigo Ornelas Jr. of Folsom.
The preliminary investigation revealed that Ornelas Jr. was riding a bicycle east on LA Highway 40, in a poorly lit area. At the same time, an unknown, dark-colored sedan or small SUV was traveling east on LA Highway 40, struck Ornelas Jr., and left the scene.
Ornelas Jr., who was not wearing a helmet but was dressed in light-colored clothing, sustained serious injuries and was transported to a local hospital for treatment, where he later died. Troopers determined that the bicycle was equipped with reflectors but was not equipped with lights. A routine toxicology sample was obtained from Ornelas Jr. for analysis. This crash remains under investigation.
While Troopers work to identify the suspect vehicle and driver, anyone with information is urged to contact Louisiana State Police Troop L at (985) 893-6250. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through the Louisiana State Police online reporting system or by calling the LSP Fusion Center Hotline at 1-800-434-8007.
Troopers remind bicyclists that, under Louisiana law, bicycles are considered vehicles and riders must follow the same traffic laws as motorists. Never assume a driver can see you—stay visible with proper lighting and reflective clothing, especially in low-light conditions. Cyclists should ride as close to the right side of the roadway as practicable, except when passing or turning left. Additionally, Louisiana law requires proper lighting equipment when riding at night. For more bicycle safety information, visit the Louisiana Highway Safety Commission’s website at https://www.lahighwaysafety.org/our-programs/bicycle-pedestrian-safety/.
Contact Information:
Trooper Marc Gremillion
Louisiana State Police
Public Affairs Section – Troop L
Phone: (985) 302-9272
[email protected]
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