WEST MONROE, La. — Authorities in West Monroe are investigating a tragic late-night incident that claimed the life of 41-year-old Jason Ellis, a longtime resident of the area, and are asking for the public’s help in locating a vehicle involved in the hit-and-run. The West Monroe Police Department reports that the incident occurred around 11:30 p.m. Tuesday along Cypress Street near Jackson Street.

According to police, Ellis was walking along the roadway when he was struck by a dark-colored sedan traveling eastbound. The vehicle fled the scene without stopping. Evidence collected at the scene suggests the car likely sustained damage to the front driver’s side headlight and possibly along the driver’s side panel. Moments later, another vehicle traveling westbound struck Ellis but remained at the scene and fully cooperated with authorities. Emergency responders arrived quickly, but Ellis was pronounced deceased at the scene from his injuries.

Detectives with the West Monroe Police Department’s Traffic Division are leading the investigation, reviewing traffic camera footage, witness statements, and surveillance video from nearby businesses to locate the fleeing vehicle and identify the driver. Authorities urge anyone who may have seen a dark-colored sedan with noticeable front-left damage, or dashcam footage from the area, to come forward. Mechanics and auto body shops are also being asked to watch for anyone attempting to repair a vehicle matching this description.

The West Monroe Police Department expressed gratitude to the second driver who stopped, emphasizing that rendering aid is both a legal and moral responsibility.

Friends and neighbors described Ellis as a kind, hardworking man who had been part of the West Monroe community for many years. His sudden death has left the community shocked and saddened, with many expressing frustration over the fleeing driver who failed to stop.

Anyone with information about the incident or the suspect vehicle is asked to contact the West Monroe Police Department at 318-396-2722. Anonymous tips can also be submitted to Crime Stoppers of North Delta at 318-388-CASH (2274). Tipsters may be eligible for a reward if their information leads to an arrest or identification of the vehicle involved.

Police continue to investigate the events leading up to Ellis’s death and are seeking the community’s assistance to bring accountability to the driver who caused this heartbreaking tragedy. The department extended condolences to Ellis’s family and friends, acknowledging the profound loss felt by all who knew him.