High-speed chase ends inside Cajun Claws, destroying the bar

ABBEVILLE, KATC — A high-speed car chase through the streets of Abbeville ended when the driver crashed his vehicle into Cajun Claws, a popular Abbeville restaurant.

On Sunday night around 7 p.m., Abbeville police were called to Walmart for a shoplifting incident. Kevin Collins is accused of leaving the scene and crashing into the 27-year-old business. According to the Abbeville Police Department, the pursuit began when one of the officers attempted to pull Collins over. The driver drove through the intersection of Charity and John Hardy where he lost control.

“It’s like something out of a movie. It’s unreal that something like this could exist. I used to play cards here, have cocktails here on Friday nights. It’s pretty hard to come in and see this kind of situation and a vehicle in your establishment,” said Kyle Choate, the owner’s son.

Kyle said he feels right at home at Cajun Claws.

“This particular part of the restaurant (bar) is where people wait before getting their crawfish. So there’s a lot of family and friends, everyone knows each other a little bit. It’s a familiar place where you can see everyone’s face.”

Customers like Gregory Bean, who was driving, told KATC he was devastated to hear the news.

“It’s a shame that something like this happens. It’s sad. Lives are in danger that they shouldn’t be,” Bean said.

Collins, who has an outstanding warrant for attempted murder in New Iberia, was arrested in Vermilion Parish. He is currently being held at VSPO.

As for Cajun Claws, Kyle says the family is trying to pick up the pieces.

“We’re going to rebuild this place the way it was. This is our home, so we’re going to go back and whatever it takes, we’re going to make it happen,” Kyle said.

If you would like to support Cajun Claws you can go to,

Rebuild the original Cajun claws