Hit and run driver arrested, injured youth in serious condition

A Gonzales man was arrested Sunday by Ascension Sheriff’s officers in connection with a hit and run crash that occurred early Saturday morning on Cannon Road, Sheriff Jeff Wiley said.

Lawrence J. Furlow, 43, of 13140 George Rouyea Road, was charged with felony hit and run, negligent injuring, driving under suspension, and careless operation of a vehicle, the sheriff said.

A 15-year old boy was struck by a vehicle while riding a bicycle on Cannon Road in the vicinity of Steven’s Park just before 2 a.m. Saturday morning by what witnesses described as white in color SUV-type vehicle, according to Chief of Criminal Operations Col. Paul Robert.

The vehicle fled the scene without stopping, according to witnesses, and the youth was transported to Our Lady of the Lake Medical Center in Baton Rouge where he remains in serious condition with head, back, and internal injuries, Robert said.

While conducting an extensive investigation into the incident, said the uniform Patrol Division received a tip indicating Furlow drove a vehicle that fit the description of the one involved in the hit and run, according to Robert.

After further investigation, deputies determined that Furlow drove a white 1999 Chevrolet Suburban which was found to have damage to the front, driver’s-side area of the vehicle, Robert said.

The vehicle was seized and will be examined by the crime lab for comparison to evidence found at the scene of the incident, he said.

The investigation was led by Sgt. Jeff Griffin and deputy Bill Lanoux.

Officers interviewed Furlow and he was subsequently booked into the parish jail on Sunday where he is  being held pending bond being set, according to Robert.