TROOP A - NEWS RELEASE November 16, 2013 Two Vehicle Crash in West Baton Rouge Parish on I-10 Leaves a Lafayette Couple Dead
Yesterday shortly after 11:00 P.M., troopers from Troop A investigated a double fatality crash involving two vehicles. The crash occurred on I-10 westbound near La. 415 (Lobdell) in West Baton Rouge Parish.
Initial investigation revealed that a 2002 Ford F-150 operated by Farnis Keller, Jr. (B/M 40) of Slaughter was traveling eastbound on I-10 and a 2006 Chevrolet Pickup operated by John M. Faul (W/M 66) of Lafayette was traveling westbound on I-10.
As the Ford continued east towing an 8 foot trailer, its left front tire lost its tread resulting in Keller overcorrecting and losing control of the vehicle. Keller’s actions caused the Ford to swerve left exiting the eastbound lanes and entering the median. The Ford crossed the median, entered the westbound lanes, and struck the left side of the Chevrolet. The impact caused the Ford to continue across the westbound lanes and come to rest partially in the right lane and shoulder. The impact pushed the Chevrolet off of the roadway where it came to rest in the tree line. Keller, the Ford's lone occupant, was restrained and he received no injuries. The Chevrolet had four total occupants; Faul, right front passenger Donray Latoi Fuselier (B/M 20) of Lafayette, left rear passenger Elaine C. Faul (W/F 65) of Lafayette, and the right rear passenger Jill Faul Ballard (W/F 46) of Lafayette. John and Elain Faul (Husband and Wife) were restrained; however, they received fatal injuries from the impact of the Ford on the left side of the Chevrolet. Both were pronounced dead on the scene by West Baton Rouge Parish Coroner's Office.
Fuselier and Ballard were restrained and transported by Acadian EMS for minor injuries. This crash remains under investigation. Impairment, on the part of either driver, is not considered to be a factor in this crash.
The State Police urge motorist to stay vigilant behind the wheel at all times. Motorists can scan the approaching area for any hazards. State police also urge motorists to physically and visually inspect their vehicle prior to traveling. This can include tires, windshield wipers, turn signals, and horn to name a few. State Police also urge motorist that experience a flat tire, blowout, or any tire malfunction not to panic and to remain calm. The driver should remain steering, take the foot off of the accelerator, slowly apply the brake and steer to safety. Mentally preparing for this and other incidents by having a plan of action can greatly reduce panicking and over-reacting. This particular crash proves that not all crashes are survivable; however, seat belts can greatly decrease an occupant’s chance of death and may greatly reduce the extent of injury. Troopers witness firsthand the remarkable difference the use of a seatbelt makes in reducing injuries and fatalities in crashes. Louisiana law requires every vehicle occupant, front seat and back seat, to be properly restrained day or night. Taking the time to buckle up every trip and every time is the single most effective thing you can do to protect yourself in a crash.
Contact Information:
M/T Greg Marchand
Louisiana State Police
Public Affairs Section – Troop L
Office: (985) 893-6236
Cell: (504) 650-5303
Greg.marchand@la.gov
www.LSP.org
www.facebook.com/LouisianaStatePolice
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