Woman Charged in Fatal Hit-and-Run That Killed Former Sheriff Hilton to Face Arraignment
Ladonna Delrie, arrested and accused of fatally injuring former Rapides Parish Sheriff William Earl Hilton, is set to be arraigned on May 12. Delrie remains in custody at the Madison Parish Correctional Center, facing multiple serious charges.
The grand jury formally indicted Delrie on April 28, officially charging her with first-degree murder, aggravated flight from an officer, and simple criminal damage to property. These charges stem from a violent incident on March 23 in the Hineston area where Hilton was found with life-threatening injuries.
Deadly Incident Unfolded in Louisiana Neighborhood
According to the Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office (RPSO), Hilton returned home around 1 p.m. on that day only to discover Delrie exiting his residence. When Hilton attempted to approach Delrie, she struck him with her vehicle. He suffered severe injuries and was airlifted to a hospital, where he later died.
Shortly after the incident, deputies identified Delrie fleeing in her vehicle at high speed along LA 28 near Leavines Road. Police attempted a traffic stop, triggering a dangerous chase that reached speeds exceeding 100 mph. The pursuit ended after officers deployed spike strips near LA 28 and Cloverleaf Boulevard, where Delrie was arrested without further incident.
Community Reacts as Former Sheriff’s Legacy Mourned
The death of Hilton sent shockwaves through the community and law enforcement circles. Hilton was remembered not only for his decades-long dedication to public safety but also for his impact on the Rapides Parish region. Pineville’s Mayor Joe Bishop recalled over 30 years of friendship with the late sheriff, highlighting the loss felt across Louisiana and neighboring states, including South Carolina.
Authorities confirmed they will monitor the upcoming legal proceedings closely as this high-profile case develops. The arraignment on May 12 marks a critical next step in the judicial process against Delrie.
What’s Next?
Residents and law enforcement officials remain vigilant ahead of the arraignment hearing. The court will address the formal charges and Delrie’s detention status, potentially setting the stage for further trial proceedings.
This incident serves as a potent reminder of the risks law enforcement officers face daily, and it holds significance beyond Louisiana given Hilton’s respected stature. The SC Journal will continue to provide real-time updates on this case impacting communities across the South.
Stay tuned for the latest on the arraignment and ongoing investigation.
