NewsNational News

Actions

Louisiana State Police Officer shot in the head during DUI stop has died

Posted at
and last updated

UPDATE:

(CNN) -- Trooper Steven Vincent, who was shot by a driver he had stopped to help Sunday, has died of his injuries, Louisiana State Police Col. Michael Edmonson said in a news release Monday. "As an organization, we are heartbroken over this senseless and tragic death," Edmonson's statement said.

From CNN's Rosa Flores

EARLIER:

A Louisiana State Police Trooper was shot in the head after stopping a DUI suspect Sunday afternoon.

Senior Trooper Steven J. Vincent was in critical condition after the shooting, according to the Louisiana State Police.

Passing drivers stopped the suspect as he tried to get away, police said.

Trooper Vincent spotted a truck in a ditch near Highway 14 in Calcasieu Parish at about 3 p.m., investigators said.

The truck matched the description of a truck that had been reported as being involved in a reckless driving incident.

Police said the only person in the car was the driver, 54-year-old Kevin Daigle.

Daigle shot Trooper Vincent in the head with a shotgun, according to police.

Daigle tried to leave but several people who were passing by were able to stop him, said police. Other witnesses and motorists stopped to help Vincent and called 911.

Vincent was airlifted to Lake Charles Memorial Hospital.

"This afternoon, the very foundation of our department was shaken by the malicious act of an individual against a Trooper simply attempting to render assistance,” stated Colonel Mike Edmonson. “Troopers bravely embark each day across the state to serve and protect the citizens of Louisiana while fully realizing the inherent dangers of our solemn vow to public safety. Trooper Vincent remains in a fight for his life this evening and we must remember his unwavering service and spirit as we continue to pray for his recovery."

"Senior Trooper Vincent has served the Lake Charles community in Troop D since December of 2003 and remains under the close watch of physicians this evening while surrounded by family."

Police said Daigle would be booked on charges of attempted first degree murder of a police officer and several other related charges.