BREAUX BRIDGE, La. (KPEL News) – A tragic incident occurred on Thursday, April 25, 2024, as a collision between a vehicle and a bicyclist claimed the life of 66-year-old Shelton J. Edmond of Breaux Bridge.

The St. Martin Parish Sheriff’s Office received a distress call at around 9:00 p.m. from a motorist reporting the crash, which transpired in the 1300 block of Zin Zin Road.

Initial investigations revealed that the driver of the vehicle was traveling westbound on Zin Zin Road when the collision took place. Simultaneously, Edmond, also traveling westward on his bicycle, was struck by the vehicle.

Deputies on the scene noted that the bicycle lacked a rear light or reflector, and Edmond was wearing dark clothing at the time of the accident. However, impairment on the part of the driver was ruled out as a contributing factor.

Despite the swift response of emergency services, Edmond was pronounced deceased at the scene due to injuries sustained in the crash. The investigation into the incident is ongoing.

The St. Martin Parish Sheriff’s Office expressed gratitude to the Breaux Bridge Police Department and State Police for their cooperation and assistance in the investigation. As authorities continue their inquiries, the community mourns the loss of a beloved individual and emphasizes the importance of road safety for all travelers.

This is a developing story, and the KPEL News Team is working to provide additional coverage for Acadiana. Updates will be shared as they become available, so download the KPEL News app via Google Play or in the App Store and subscribe to breaking news alerts to get the latest information sent directly to your mobile device.

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WASHINGTON – The fourth annual Petworth Porchfest returns to Northwest, D.C. Here’s everything you need to know and other things to do around D.C., Maryland, and Virginia.

This volunteer-led event is put together by a passionate group of Petworth residents. The free event is inspired by other PorchFests throughout D.C. that create an opportunity to connect with the community after a global pandemic. Learn more about the festival here. 

Grab a friend and put your knowledge of the decades to the test. Enjoy a night filled with throwback moments and a blast from the past. Find out how to secure your team’s spot here. 

The Georgetown BID is hosting their 21st annual Georgetown French Market this weekend, April 26 – 28. This family-friendly open-air market will feature sidewalk sales and specials from more than 40 locally-owned boutiques, cafés, and galleries along Wisconsin Avenue from O St to Reservoir Road. The event will also include live music, stilt-walkers, face painting, a mime, and more. Learn more about the event here. 

The Black & Forth Farmers Market is returning for a jammed-packed weekend. This market will feature fresh fruit, veggies, fresh crabs, water, herbs, breads, pastries, juices, and popcorn for purchase. The market will offer the makings of a block party. Check out the full lineup here.

The DC Chocolate Festival is a celebration of artisan and fine chocolate from the Mid-Atlantic. This event brings together over 30 chocolate vendors and thousands of chocolate lovers for a day of tasting, talking, and learning. Learn how you can attend the event here. 

Calling all plant and nature lovers. This fair is the perfect event to explore the widest selection of cacti and succulents. Continue the celebration of Earth Day with this amazing event that will feature nature and learning. Click here to secure your ticket. 

Put on Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter and dust off your cowboy boots. This festival brings the spirit of the Wild West to Shipgarten, featuring toe-tappin’ tunes, delicious food, and a down-home atmosphere that will have you ready to hop in the saddle.  Learn more about the festival here. 

This family-friendly festival is a great way to enjoy the excitement of superheros like Batman, Wonder Woman, and Spider-Man. Enjoy free face painting, arts and crafts, live music, and moonbounces. Check out the full lineup here. 

Grab your running shoes and get ready to enjoy the warm weather for a cause. This track meet is in honor of the late Devin Alexander Brewer, a champion track athlete. Learn more about the event here and how you can sign up for the Young Simba Scholarship.

CHOCTAW CO., Miss. (WLBT) – The first documented cicada was spotted in Mississippi for 2024!

According to the Mississippi State University Extension Service, it was spotted in Choctaw County this week.

MSU Extension Entomologist Dr. Blake Layton says in the South, we have three broods of 13-year cicadas, each of which occurs in its own geographic area and emerges on its own schedule. This spring, thirteen-year cicada Brood XIX, also known as the Great Southern brood, will emerge in parts of 15 states, including at least 17 counties in Mississippi.

Mississippi is the only state that has all three broods of 13-year periodic cicadas. By tradition, periodic cicada broods are numbered using Roman numerals. Brood XIX will emerge this year, Brood XXII will emerge next in 2027, and Brood XXIII in 2028.

“There are 12 broods of seventeen-year cicadas, but these occur farther north,” Dr. Layton said. “Seventeen-year cicada Brood XIII will also emerge this year in northern Illinois and a few surrounding states. But not in Mississippi! So, you don’t need to worry about parts of Mississippi having seventeen-year and thirteen-year cicadas at the same time.”

For an even more in-depth explanation of what’s to come, click here.

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