Police Chase Firefighter Hit

Disclaimer: All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty. An Ouachita Parish firefighter was injured during a high-speed pursuit near Crawdaddy's Restaurant on Hwy 165 on Friday, November 15, 2024. According to the Ouachita Parish Sheriff's Office (OPSO), the alleged suspect, later identified as Joseph A. Seay, was reportedly fleeing from Morehouse Parish Sheriff's Office deputies while heading toward Ouachita Parish. At the time, firefighters and parish authorities were managing an active crash scene near the restaurant when Seay allegedly sped through the area, striking a firefighter and causing bodily injuries. Authorities stated that Seay failed to stop his vehicle, render aid, report the incident, or identify himself.

Deputies continued the chase and eventually stopped Seay's vehicle, taking him into custody. A search of the vehicle reportedly revealed marijuana and an expired Texas license plate. Deputies stated that Seay informed them there were no other passengers in the vehicle. He also allegedly told deputies that he was unaware he had struck a firefighter and denied consuming alcohol before operating the vehicle. However, Seay admitted to smoking marijuana earlier that day. According to authorities, Seay failed a field sobriety test and was subsequently placed in handcuffs. He was transported to Ouachita Correctional Center (OCC) and charged with the following offenses: First-Degree Vehicular Negligent Injuring, Felony Hit and Run, Reckless Operation, Driving Under Suspension, and Expired License Plate.There are three sides to every story. This was one side of this story. The Monroe Dispatch welcomes another or the other side of this story.