Oberlin Worker Accused of Hitting Man, Leaving on Tractor

OBERLIN, La. - There are some strange stories that come out of small-town Louisiana, and this one definitely qualifies.

A Town of Oberlin maintenance worker is facing criminal charges after authorities say he got into a fight with a man outside a local dollar store, and then left the scene riding a town-owned tractor.

According to the Allen Parish Sheriff's Office, the incident happened several months ago, but the suspect was arrested for the assault this week.

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What Happened At The Oberlin, Louisiana Dollar Store?

Well, you see...what has happened was...

The Allen Parish Sheriff's Office reports 42-year-old Christopher Latigue of Kinder arrived at the Family Dollar in Oberlin on April 20 while the alleged victim was leaving the store.

According to deputies, Latigue is accused of hitting the man several times. Investigators say the alleged assault continued even after the man had fallen to the ground.

That's where this already unusual story takes another turn.

Authorities Say The Suspect Left The Scene On A Town Tractor

After the alleged incident, deputies say Latigue was seen leaving the area on a Town of Oberlin tractor.

It's not every day that a police report involves someone allegedly leaving the scene on a piece of municipal equipment.

According to Acadiana News First, Latigue worked for the Town of Oberlin's maintenance department. The man involved in the incident had previously interacted with Latigue and other town employees, according to deputies.

Oberlin Maintenance Worker Arrested For Battery

Latigue was arrested Tuesday in connection with the investigation.

According to the Allen Parish Sheriff's Office, he is facing charges of:

Second-degree battery
Malfeasance in office

His bond had not been set at the time of this report.

As with any criminal case, these are allegations, and the charges are not a finding of guilt. Latigue will have the opportunity to respond to the allegations through the legal process.

It's not everyday we hear about someone "fleeing" the scene of a crime in a tractor.