James Blake Buteaux dies in LA hit and run crash, suspect charged

clock Created with Sketch Beta. April 24, 2026
James Blake Buteaux dies in LA hit and run crash, suspect charged

NEW IBERIA, LA, (April 17, 2026) – A 37-year-old man was killed early Friday morning in a hit-and-run crash in New Iberia, according to Louisiana State Police.

Authorities identified the victim as James “Blake” Buteaux. Investigators said Buteaux was struck by a vehicle driven by Justin Breaux at approximately 3:30 a.m. along Louisiana Highway 329 near Doc Road.

Police reported that Breaux fled the scene following the collision. He was later charged with felony hit-and-run resulting in death, driving under suspension, no insurance, a cancelled license plate, and an active warrant for violation of a protected order.

A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to assist Buteaux’s family with funeral expenses.

The investigation into the crash remains ongoing.

Incident Location


FATAL HIT-AND-RUN ACCIDENT INVESTIGATION

Leaving the scene of a crash is a criminal offense, yet data shows that more than one hit-and-run accident happens every minute on roads across the United States.

Many drivers flee because they may be impaired, unlicensed, or fear arrest if they remain at the scene.

Candice Bond, Managing Partner of Bond Legal and a national analyst with Accident Injury News, emphasized that in incidents like this, a prompt and thorough independent investigation is essential to safeguard a victim’s rights.

“Having the proper resources is extremely important to investigate a hit-and-run accident case and establish negligence,” said Bond. “Road conditions, signage visibility, and roadway lighting are all potential contributing factors that must be carefully reviewed. These steps are critical to help ensure that victims and their families receive justice and any financial compensation they may be entitled to.”


WRONGFUL DEATH CLAIM

The family members of James Buteaux may have the right to pursue a wrongful death claim. Families who lose a loved one in such tragic incidents may seek compensation for loss of companionship, emotional suffering, and other damages.

“We understand the difficulties families face during such devastating times, and protecting their rights is essential,” said Stefano Formica, Of Counsel with Bond Legal. “A wrongful death attorney can stay informed about the official investigation and help ensure the family’s best interests are protected. Loved ones of victims may pursue damages for loss of companionship, pain and suffering, and emotional distress following a tragic accident.”


(This report is based on verified data - learn more on our About Us page.)


If your loved one has been killed by a hit-and-run driver and would like a no-cost consultation, please contact our national legal analyst Candice Bond today

(Candice Bond, our national legal analyst, is a Managing Partner at Bond Legal. Accident Injury News can and does use quotes from prior interviews with our analysts for our news articles. If you would like to contact Bond Legal to help you, please call 866-986-7738 or use the submission box found on this page. Legal analysts quoted may or may not be licensed in your state).

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