A former Vermilion Parish Sheriff deputy was killed in an automobile accident south of Kaplan.

Pete Johnson, 23 of Kaplan was a passenger in a vehicle found overturned south of Kaplan near LA 35 and Waldo Rd at 3:30 a.m. this morning.

Reports indicate Kade Abshire, 23, also of Kaplan, was driving north on LA 35 and entered a left curve and traveled off the right side of the road which caused the vehicle to overturn. Abshire was ejected from the vehicle and transported to a local hospital to be treated for minor injuries.

Johnson was also not restrained and was pronounced dead by the Vermilion Parish Coroner. Throughout the investigation, officials discovered that Abshire had been under the influence of alcohol. After being released, Abshire was arrested for DWI 1st offense, vehicular homicide, careless operation and no seatbelt. Abshire’s blood level was found to be twice the legal limit.