One day after a fatal hit-and-run crash at the intersection of Earhart Boulevard and South Galvez Street, NOPD Traffic Fatality investigators arrested Bruce LeBant Jr. (DOB: 11-24-1978), who surrendered to police and admitted to being the driver in the incident.

At approximately 9:22 p.m. on Feb. 4, NOPD Sixth District officers responded to a call of a person struck by an unknown vehicle at the intersection of Earhart Boulevard and South Galvez Street. Officers discovered a seriously injured male lying in the right southbound lane of Earhart Boulevard. Officers learned the victim was walking westbound on South Galvez Street attempting to cross Earhart Boulevard when he was struck by the vehicle that was traveling southbound on Earhart Boulevard in the left lane. The driver of the vehicle failed to stop and render aid or request medical assistance for the victim. The pedestrian was pronounced dead on the scene.

As investigation into the incident progressed, investigators learned that a black 2012 Mercedes-Benz limousine owned by A Confidential Transportation in Kenner, La was found to have damage consistent with that of the incident. Employees of the company recognized the damages to the vehicle and brought the matter to ownership, who contacted police. NOPD Traffic Fatality Unit officers traveled to the location and, through investigation, determined the vehicle to be that which was involved in the incident.

As vehicle was being seized for transport to the NOPD Crime Lab for further testing, an employee and motor maintenance technician for the company – later identified as LeBant – approached the detectives and admitted to being the driver of the vehicle on the night and time of the incident. Detectives then arrested LeBant, who was booked into Central Lockup on a charge of manslaughter.

The Orleans Parish Coroner will release the victim's name and will conduct an autopsy to determine the exact cause of death.

Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to Detective Michael Baldassaro or the Traffic Fatality Unit at 504-658-6208.

Citizens with information that can help solve crimes are asked to call Crimestoppers at 504-822-1111 or toll-free 1-877-903-STOP.