NEW ORLEANS (WGNO) – Loved ones of the victim in a hit and run crash say recent arrests bring little comfort.
Three people were arrested Wednesday in connection with the fatal ATV accident. Now family members are sharing their thoughts about the case.
WGNO News Reporter Darian Trotter has more.
“I don’t feel good about anything; I’m not satisfied with them being in jail. I’m not satisfied. I’m just not satisfied because there’s no good outcome in this.” everyone’s hurt,” Vegas Cola said.
She’s talking about the recent arrests in the hit and run death of her sister Daphne Cola.
The 37-year old mother of two was leaving a Treme bar July 27th, when she was struck by an ATV.
Security camera video of the aftermath has been especially hard for the victim’s sister to watch.
“The action of seeing people going this way and people go this way and never come back this way to check on her that completely shut me down from the beginning.”
During the past five weeks, police reviewed video footage, interviewed witnesses, and sifted through numerous tips from the public.
“Along with collecting some pieces of evidence that was able to match up with the individuals that were arrested, and we brought three to justice right now,” said New Orleans Police Lieutenant Anthony Micheu.
Tuesday, police arrested Matthew Cousan for obstruction of justice; but detectives believe 25-year old Darrin Smith Jr. drove the stolen ATV, with 25-year old Sadie Brown as his passenger.
Vegas says she cried tears of joy after the arrests, but her mother doesn’t share the same measure of relief.
“I know everyone is celebrating as if something was done, but nothing is going to bring her back.”
Daphne cola was a regular at Kermit Ruffins’ Mother in Law Lounge. Her funeral had an all-white theme, and was well attended.
Vegas sang during the service. She sang a song she says describes the bond she had with her sister.
“I’ll never stop breaking the law for you.”
As the case plays out in the justice system, Vegas plans to attend every hearing and trial.
“My sister would be there for me.” “You couldn’t hold, you couldn’t pull her away until everything was finished.”
Darrin Smith was booked with Manslaughter and Illegal Possession of Stolen Property
Sadie Brown was booked with Accessory to Manslaughter, and Illegal Possession of Stolen Property.
Police are still investigating. They say there could be more arrests in the case.
