A former Jeff Davis Parish fire chief is facing charges in a hit-and-run crash that claimed the life of a 73-year-old Welsh bicyclist last week.

Peter E. “Pete” Doland, 64, of Lake Arthur was arrested at his residence Sunday after an arrest warrant was issued on Saturday, according to State Police.

Trooper First Class Derek Senegal said Doland was booked into the Jeff Davis Parish Jail on charges of felony hit-and-run and careless operation. Additional charges could be filed pending further investigation, Senegal said Monday.

Doland is the former fire chief for Jeff Davis Parish Fire Protection District 4 which serves the unincorporated areas north of Lake Arthur.

Jerry W. Hughes died June 6 after being struck from behind while riding his bicycle on LA 1126, just west of Farm Supply Road, around 8:30 a.m.

The driver allegedly failed to stop after hitting Hughes, and fled the scene.

After the accident, State Police sought the assistance of the public in identifying the vehicle and driver.  A witness told investigators they saw a small white SUV leaving the area after the crash with moderate damage to the hood and windshield, Senegal said.

An investigation later identified Doland as the suspected driver of the vehicle, he said.

A vehicle matching the description was located at Doland’s residence last week and transported to State PoliceTroop D for forensic evidence prior to the arrest warrant being issued. Investigators have questioned Doland and have spoken with several witnesses as part of the ongoing investigation, Senegal said.