August 19, 2025

Man Hijacks Construction Crane, Causes Crashes on I-10

News Summary

A man from Vinton, Louisiana, hijacked a construction crane, causing multiple crashes on Interstate 10. The incident resulted in injuries and significant property damage, prompting authorities to investigate his actions and any possible accomplices. The highway has since reopened, but the situation has raised concerns about safety in construction zones.

Vinton

A 37-year-old man from Vinton, Louisiana, has been arrested following a bizarre incident during which he allegedly hijacked a construction crane and caused multiple crashes on Interstate 10. Matthew Vincent was taken into custody on Saturday morning, August 16, after state police responded to several 911 calls about the crane dangerously hanging over traffic in a work zone.

The incident unfolded around 5:30 a.m. near Highway 108 in Calcasieu Parish. Authorities reported that the crane, which was stationed in the median of a construction area, was not being operated by any construction personnel at the time. Vincent is accused of unlawfully crossing Interstate 10 after abandoning his Dodge Ram truck in a nearby field and climbing into the crane. Investigators state that he manipulated the crane’s boom, which extended over the westbound lanes, thereby obstructing traffic.

The crane’s cables struck a vehicle traveling on the interstate, which led to three subsequent crashes involving multiple cars. As a result of these collisions, two individuals sustained injuries and substantial property damage was reported. The crashes caused significant damage to the crane itself, necessitating a prolonged closure of the interstate to facilitate the cleanup and investigation.

After the incident, Louisiana State Police located the key fob of Vincent’s truck inside the crane, linking him back to the abandoned vehicle. Vincent now faces several charges, including simple burglary, aggravated obstruction of a highway, negligent injuring, hit and run, criminal mischief, and being a pedestrian on the interstate. The highway has since reopened, although investigators are continuing to examine the events surrounding the incident, including the possibility of an accomplice being involved.

Investigation Details

In the aftermath of the situation, law enforcement officials are urging anyone who witnessed suspicious activity in the vicinity of the construction site or the events leading up to the crashes to reach out to their detectives. The investigation remains ongoing as authorities piece together Vincent’s actions prior to and during the hijacking.

Background on I-10 Work Zone

The section of Interstate 10 where the incident occurred has been subjected to ongoing construction efforts, which has included various work zones to improve road conditions and infrastructure. This construction work can often lead to increased hazards for drivers if not properly monitored, particularly with heavy machinery in the vicinity. Authorities have emphasized the importance of cautions while driving through these zones, especially in light of events such as this hijacking.

As transportation authorities seek to ensure the safety of all motorists in the area, this odd incident involving a hijacked crane serves as a concerning reminder of the potential risks associated with construction zones on busy interstate highways.

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Author: STAFF HERE NEWORLEANS WRITER

NEW ORLEANS STAFF WRITER The NEW ORLEANS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENewOrleans.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in New Orleans, Orleans Parish, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as French Quarter Festival, New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, and Essence Music Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the New Orleans Chamber of Commerce and Greater New Orleans, Inc., plus leading businesses in energy, healthcare, and education that power the local economy such as Entergy, Ochsner Health, and Tulane University. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREShreveport.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Louisiana's dynamic landscape.

STAFF HERE NEWORLEANS WRITER

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