Louisiana Man Charged After Allegedly Sabotaging Vehicle on University Campus

A Minden, Louisiana man was arrested today after being accused of intentionally damaging a vehicle by contaminating its fuel system, potentially endangering the driver.

Joshua Evan Bordelon, 31, was taken into custody by Louisiana Tech Police on November 4th following two separate incidents involving a woman’s car while it was parked on campus. Police discovered the vehicle stalled in a busy intersection, creating a hazardous situation. A technician who examined the car determined a fluid had been introduced into the fuel system, causing the engine to fail.

Investigators found a similar incident occurred several days prior, with the same technician identifying the contaminating fluid as diesel exhaust fluid – DEF – which can cause significant damage to gasoline-powered engines. Surveillance footage reportedly showed a suspect loitering near the vehicle’s fuel fill area before proceeding to the student center, where he used a card to purchase a meal. Bordelon was identified through that transaction. According to the arrest report, the intentional damage created a dangerous scenario where the vehicle’s accelerator, power brakes, and power steering could have failed while in operation.

Bordelon has been booked at the Lincoln Parish Detention Center for aggravated criminal damage to property and criminal mischief, and a motive for the alleged actions remains unknown. Vehicle sabotage can carry significant penalties, highlighting the seriousness of the charges. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration offers resources on vehicle safety and potential tampering. Further information about local incidents can be found at the Lincoln Parish Journal.

Authorities continue to investigate the case, and Bordelon awaits further legal proceedings.