Michael D Welch Obituary, Death; – A Westlake man has been arrested in connection with a fatal hit-and-run on Halloween, authorities said. Tylor B. Fontenot, 30, of Westlake, is charged with felony hit and run and obstruction of justice in connection with the death of Michael D. Welch, 41, of Westlake, on Oct. 31.
Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Office deputies were dispatched at approximately 2 p.m. today to the 2600 block of Miller Avenue, near Smith Ferry Road, in Westlake, where they found a man dead in the ditch. Authorities identified him as Welch.
The preliminary investigation suggested the incident to be a hit and run. After further investigation, detectives said a car driven by Fontenot was traveling north on Miller Avenue when he struck Welch, who was riding a bicycle, from behind.
During the investigation, detectives received information that Fontenot had discarded a car hood in a dumpster behind a business in Sulphur. Detectives also said Fontenot was observed using a tool to shave off the part numbers from the hood prior to discarding it.
Fontenot, who allegedly did not stop after the crash, was arrested Friday and booked into the Calcasieu Correctional Center. He was released the following day on a $90,000 bond with special conditions; he cannot operate a vehicle without an ignition interlock device, he must wear an alcohol detecting ankle bracelet, must be subject to random drug screenings, cannot commit any criminal activity, no contact with known drug users or convicted felons and no driving without a valid license.
