Speed and Lack of Seat Belt Use Contribute to St. John the Baptist Parish Fatal Crash

Reserve – On September 27, 2026, shortly after 2:30 a.m., Troopers with Louisiana State Police Troop B began investigating a two-vehicle fatal crash on U.S. Highway 61 (Airline Highway) near Terre Haute Road in St. John the Baptist Parish. The crash claimed the life of a 41-year-old man from Garyville.

The preliminary investigation revealed that a 2025 Honda HR-V was stopped in the right lane of U.S. 61 north at the intersection of Terre Haute Road for a red traffic signal. At the same time, a 2025 Dodge Ram was traveling north on U.S. 61, approaching the intersection and the stopped Honda. For reasons still under investigation, the Dodge struck the rear of the Honda. The Dodge then became fully engulfed in flames.

The driver of the Dodge, who was unrestrained at the time of the crash, sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene. The driver of the Honda, who was properly restrained, sustained moderate injuries and was transported to a local hospital for treatment.

Speed is a suspected contributing factor in this crash. Impairment is unknown; however, standard toxicology samples were taken and submitted for analysis. This crash remains under investigation.

Troopers remind motorists that speeding and failure to wear a seat belt are major contributing factors in fatal crashes across the state. Louisiana law requires every person in a vehicle, regardless of seating position, to remain properly buckled. While not all crashes are survivable, properly wearing a seat belt significantly reduces the risk of serious injury or death.

Contact Information:
Trooper Kyle Wagner
Louisiana State Police
Public Affairs Section – Troop B
(504) 202-6900
[email protected]

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