| id | cleanReleaseDate | troopName | title |
| 1325 | 2016-12-22 | Troop B | Lack of Seat Belt Use is Factor in US 61 Fatal Crash |
TROOP B - NEWS RELEASE December 22, 2016 Lack of Seat Belt Use is Factor in US 61 Fatal Crash St. John the Baptist Parish – This morning, shortly after 5:00 am, Louisiana State Police Troop B investigated a fatal crash on US 61 near Emmett Court. The crash involved two vehicles and claimed the life of 60 year old Catherine Murray of Reserve, LA. The initial investigation indicated that Murray was driving a 2015 Ford Focus and was exiting from a private drive. She began to cross the north bound lanes, in an attempt to turn left on US 61 south bound. A 2010 Toyota XD, driven by 27 year old Travis Richard of Destrehan, LA, was traveling on US 61 north in the left lane and struck the driver’s side of the Ford. Murray and Richard were transported to River Parishes Hospital. Murray was pronounced dead at the hospital and Richard suffered moderate injuries. Murray was not wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash. Richard was properly restrained. Troopers do not suspect impairment; however toxicology results are pending and autopsy. The crash remains under investigation. The majority of motorists who die in crashes are not wearing a seat belt. Despite this fact, some people still choose not to take the 3 seconds needed to buckle a seat belt. Louisiana law requires motorists to wear a seat belt in every seating position, front seat and back seat, day and night. Wearing a seat belt is the single most effective thing vehicle occupants can do to minimize the risk of injury in the event of a crash. Motorists are encouraged to make the smart choice and to always Buckle Up! Contact Information: S/T Melissa Matey Louisiana State Police – Troop B Public Affairs Section Office: (504) 471-2780 Melissa.Matey@LA.gov www.LSP.org www.facebook.com/LouisianaStatePolice | |||
| No attachments for this article. | |||