5:30 PM Newscast

Earlier this morning a man attempting to pass another vehicle on LA 139 lost control of his car, leading to a series of events that ended when his airborne vehicle struck a pole, resulting in the man’s death. 30-year-old Jared Streeter of Monroe was pronounced dead at the scene.  Master Trooper Michael Reichardt says Streeter was unable to survive the extreme force of the impact, despite having a seat belt on.

Cut 13 (08) “…drivers side” 
The state has seen some nasty weather this week, and heavy rains are predicted for the rest of the Carnival weekend, Reichardt adds make sure you’re driving as carefully as possible.

LSU basketball coach Will Wade said on his weekly radio show Wednesday night that guard Tremont Waters should be ready to go for Saturday’s game against Alabama in Tuscaloosa.
Wade said Waters, who has been sidelined for the past two games with an undisclosed illness, did an individual workout Wednesday and will practice with the rest of the team Thursday.

Two new bills, one of which requires background checks for not only the sale of a firearm, but also the temporary transfer of a firearm, has passed in the Democrat-controlled House.  However, it’s anticipated that it will not advance beyond the GOP-controlled Senate.  House Minority Whip Steve Scalise says the bill turns law-abiding citizens into criminals.

Cut 3 (11) “…a long time.”

You may have seen jackpots on those lottery billboards around the state getting noticeably larger.  The Powerball jackpot is currently at $348 million for this Saturday’s drawing.  Louisiana Lottery spokesperson Kimberly Chopin says those that might not play regularly might not realize you don’t have to hit the jackpot to come out of the game with some prize money by just matching a few numbers.

Cut 10 (07)“…to be had.”