The NOPD is investigating a traffic fatality that occurred Sunday morning (March 7) near the intersection of Franklin Avenue and Selma Street.
At around 1:35 a.m., Third District officers responded to reports of a traffic accident at the location. Upon arrival, officers discovered an adult male deceased at the location.
Upon further investigation, detectives learned that the victim was traveling southbound on Franklin Avenue at a high rate of speed when he lost control of the vehicle and struck a light pole in the 6400 block of Franklin Avenue, which caused the vehicle to catch fire, at which time the New Orleans Fire Department was notified. Upon arrival, the NOFD attempted to retrieve the victim from the vehicle and extinguish the fire but was unsuccessful.
The Orleans Parish Coroner's Office will determine official cause of death and release the victim's name, upon completion of autopsy and notification of family.
NOPD Traffic Fatality Detective Richard Chambers is leading the ongoing investigation and can be reached at 504-658-6208 with any additional information.