Good morning, Lake Charles.

Walking expert Jeff Speck visited Lake Charles last month when the Community Foundation of Southwest Louisiana invited him to offer walkability insights.

He recommended restriping downtown roads, narrowing lanes, and adding sidewalks — suggestions that could create a safer environment for pedestrians and children.

State police are investigating a two-vehicle crash on La.

14 near Linkswiller Road that occurred around 2 a.m. Saturday when a truck driven by 25-year-old Jacob Hummel was struck by another truck attempting a U-turn—Hummel died at the scene while the Jeep driver sustained critical injuries.

Dr. Stephanie Weaver received the Distinguished Service Award on May 25 for her dental work and her 26 years of service, while Renee Griner was named branch manager at CSE Federal Credit Union.

Jerry Forest was honored with the Walton-Miller Award and elected to the AIChE Board, and Regina Thomas was promoted to assistant vice president at Lakeside Bank.

Today is National Children’s Missing Day and local youth counselor David Duplechian from the Family and Youth Counseling Agency said that 2,000 children are reported missing each day in the U.S. while urging parents to watch for changes in behavior—such as altered habits or unexplained gifts—that may signal risks of child trafficking; he noted that over 460,000 children go missing annually, including 23,160 in Louisiana in 2024.

Tonnisha O. Mitchell, 43, of Lake Charles was arrested Sunday morning and charged with second-degree battery and manslaughter after she allegedly struck passenger Gene R.

Hill Jr., 42, with a baseball bat near Opelousas Street—leaving him on the roadway where passing vehicles fatally struck him and investigators reported she later tried to destroy evidence.

Authorities at Calcasieu Correctional Center booked 10 individuals on May 25 for charges ranging from unauthorized entry of dwellings to burglary, second-degree murder, manslaughter, drug possession and theft in Lake Charles, Westlake and neighboring areas—investigations are underway.

A Lake Charles woman, Randolyn P.

Allen, 43, was arrested Saturday and charged with second-degree murder after she discharged a firearm during a custody exchange at a Moss Bluff home around 2:30 p.m. — the incident resulted in the fatal shooting of Brett Daigle, 48.

McNeese Rodeo team is preparing to compete in the College National Finals in Casper, Wyoming on June 15 as it chases its first national team title since 2018.

Coach Justin Browning said the team is built not bought—competing in saddle bronc, bareback and goat tying events to become world champions.

Wellness on the Water Celebration

8-11 a.m. — Golden Nugget Lake Charles Hotel & Casino — Free entry — Experience an immersive celebration of movement, wellness, and community.

Gumbeaux Gators Home Opener vs. River Monsters

7 p.m. — Joe Miller Ballpark — Thrilling minor league baseball action as the Gumbeaux Gators take on the River Monsters.

Cajun Cowboy Cluster of Dog Shows

8 AM — Lake Charles Event Center — Cost Varies — Experience the excitement of dog shows brought to you by local kennel clubs in a festive atmosphere.

T-Gator Triathlon

7-11 a.m. — Sam Houston Jones State Park — Registration fees vary — Experience the thrill of the beloved T-Gator Triathlon with options for both individuals and relay teams.

Movie and a Craft

9:30-10:30 a.m. — Prien Lake Mall — Family-friendly event — Enjoy a morning of crafting and movie magic together.

Lake Charles Food Distribution

2-4 p.m. — 1225 2nd Street — Free food access — Support the local community with essential food distribution services.

Wayne Toups and Zydecajun Concert

7-9 p.m. — Jellystone Park™ Lake Charles — $15 at the door — Experience an exciting evening of Zydeco music under the stars.