Baker man, 19, killed by hit-and-run driver

We have been working with the criminal law system long enough to know that after something momentous happens, people get scared. We also know that when people are scared, they act in ways they might not normally.

Even keeping those things in mind, we would still like to express the message that everyone in Louisiana must act respectfully and in accordance with the law. Our society depends on a social contract of sorts that calls for us to accept accountablity where necessary. Justice and truth cannot prevail if we try to avoid our responsibilities.

What brings this all to mind is the recent death of a 19-year-old Baker man who was struck and killed by a hit-and-run driver very early Monday morning.

Police say the man was in the road on Staring Lane at Burbank Drive when he was struck by a mide-1980s Ford F-150 pickup truck. The truck did not stop after striking the man and continued to head west on Burbank Drive.

Louisiana State Police said the vehicle was light blue or teal and will now have damage to its passenger-side headlight and grille. They've asked members of the public to call 225-754-8500 with information.

We can only imagine the horror and shock the driver of the vehicle felt after realizing he or she had struck a person. Even so, that person had the opportunity to stop fleeing and return to the scene, or else come forward afterward. The decision to flee and attempt to evade accountability is inexcusable.

One thing people need to remember is that they do not have to face potential legal consequences alone. The law provides for accused people to have counsel and advocacy as they face the allegations against them

If you ever believe that you are in trouble, first, please behave safely and responsibly, and second, remember that help is available to you.

Source: The Advocate, "State Police search for driver in fatal hit and run," Feb. 11, 2013

• In our Lake Charles law office, we provide legal defense to people accused of a variety of crimes. We invite you to visit our Criminal Defense page for more information.