James W Bowie Obituary, Death; – A 33-year-old man from Covington lost his life early Sunday (Sept. 7) after being hit by an SUV while riding a bicycle without lights on a Louisiana highway, according to the Louisiana State Police.

The cyclist, named James W. Bowie from Covington, was declared dead at the scene after being struck from behind while traveling north on Louisiana Hwy. 1081. The incident occurred around 12:10 a.m., as reported by the agency.

As per State Police, Bowie was wearing dark attire, was not equipped with a helmet, and lacked rear lights or reflectors on his bicycle. Authorities indicated that he was riding in the northbound lane of the highway near the center dashed line when he was hit from behind by a 2019 Chevrolet Blazer.

The LSP noted that the Chevrolet driver was properly restrained, unharmed, and exhibited no signs of impairment. The driver voluntarily provided a breath sample, which indicated a result below the legal limit, as stated by State Police.

Troopers also collected a standard toxicology sample from Bowie, which will be sent to the state crime lab for further analysis.

The accident took place on Hwy. 1081 close to Smith Road in St. Tammany Parish, according to authorities. The driver was neither arrested nor cited, but the investigation into the incident is ongoing, as per the LSP.

State Police remind cyclists of their duty to remain visible in low-light conditions and to ride as close to the right-hand side of the road as feasible, except when overtaking or making left turns.