Pineville Interim Fire Chief Faces Potential Ouster Over Qualification Dispute
Pineville Municipal Fire & Police Civil Service Board
Pineville Interim Fire Chief Kenneth Kessler, a 28-year veteran of the Pineville Fire Department, is at risk of losing his position and civil service retirement benefits following a complaint filed with the Pineville Municipal Fire and Police Civil Service Board questioning whether he meets the baseline educational requirements for firefighting positions. The board opened an investigation into the matter after the complaint was received. Under civil service rules, when a permanent fire chief is appointed, Kessler would be required to vacate his interim title. The investigation and its potential consequences for Kessler’s retirement status remain unresolved.
APD Investigating Roberts Street Shooting
Alexandria Police Department
The Alexandria Police Department is investigating a shooting that occurred around 9:05 p.m. on September 2 on Roberts Street in Alexandria. No additional details on injuries, a suspect, or motive have been released. The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to contact APD at (318) 441-6416 or Crime Stoppers of CenLa at (318) 443-7867.
Pineville Expressway Speed Limit Change Raises Abandoned Vehicle Safety Concerns
Louisiana DOTD, Pineville Police Department
A July 7 increase in the speed limit on the Pineville Expressway from 50 to 60 mph has drawn concern from residents and officials about whether abandoned vehicles on the shoulder pose a greater danger at higher speeds. The Pineville Police Department compared crash data from 57 days before and after the change, finding a slight increase in crashes during the period. The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development said the latest trends show no significant cause for alarm. Under state law, drivers typically have 72 hours to remove an abandoned vehicle from the shoulder, though law enforcement can order immediate removal if the vehicle is deemed a safety hazard.
TRAFFIC REMINDER — Nightly Lane Closures on US 165 North in Pineville
Louisiana DOTD
Drivers on U.S. 165 North in Pineville should expect nightly alternating lane closures near Lowe’s and the U.S. 167 northbound off-ramp. Work runs Monday nights through Friday mornings, 6 p.m. to 6 a.m., weather permitting, through the end of September 2026. DOTD advises drivers to reduce speed, use caution around construction workers and equipment, and allow extra travel time.