A Lake Arthur man accused of hitting and killing a 73-year-old cyclist and leaving the scene was released from jail Tuesday on a $16,000 bond.

Peter “Pete” Doland, 64, is charged in the June 6 hit-and-run crash that claimed the life of Jerry W. Hughes of Welsh.

Hughes was reportedly riding his bicycle east on La. 1126, just west of Farm Supply Road, around 8:30 a.m. when he was struck from behind by an SUV, State Police said. The driver fled the scene after hitting Hughes.

A witness told investigators they saw a small white SUV leaving the area after the crash with moderate damage to the hood and windshield, according to Trooper First Class Derek Senegal.

The vehicle was later located at Doland’s residence and transported to State Police Troop D for forensic evidence prior to an arrest warrant being issued.

Doland, who is the former fire chief for Jeff Davis Parish Fire Protection District 4, was arrested Sunday on charges of felony hit-and-run driving and careless operation.

The crash remains under investigation.