Vinton, LA — A 37-year-old Louisiana man has been arrested after allegedly hijacking a construction crane on Interstate 10, causing multiple vehicle crashes and injuries, authorities reported.
Matthew Vincent Faces Multiple Charges
The man, identified as Matthew Vincent of Vinton, Louisiana, was taken into custody by Louisiana State Police (LSP) on Saturday, Aug. 16. Police said he now faces multiple charges, including:
- One count of simple burglary
- Aggravated obstruction of a highway
- Criminal mischief
- Pedestrian on the interstate
- Two counts of negligent injuring
- Five counts of hit-and-run driving
According to People, the incident occurred around 5:30 a.m., when LSP received reports of vehicles striking a construction crane in a work zone. Investigators later determined that the crane was unattended by workers at the time.
Crane Hijacking Led to Multiple Crashes
Authorities said Vincent unlawfully entered the crane in the median and manipulated the crane boom over the westbound lanes, resulting in four separate vehicle crashes. The crashes caused:
- Two reported injuries
- Major damage to the crane itself
- Significant property damage
- A prolonged closure of Interstate 10
Detectives discovered a key fob for a Dodge Ram pickup truck inside the crane, leading them to locate the truck in a nearby field. Police allege Vincent drove the truck off the highway, through a field when it got stuck, then abandoned it before entering the crane.
“LSP detectives are still investigating this incident and looking into the possibility of an accomplice,” the state police said. “Anyone who may have been in the area prior to this incident and observed suspicious activity is urged to contact Louisiana State Police detectives.”
Vincent in Custody, Bond Set
Vincent is being held at Calcasieu Correctional Center, with his total bond set at $3,500. He was booked shortly after 7:30 p.m. on Aug. 16. It is unclear whether he has obtained legal representation to comment on his behalf.
The I-10 freeway has since been reopened, according to reports. Authorities continue to investigate the unusual and dangerous incident that caused significant disruption and posed serious risk to public safety.
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