| id | cleanReleaseDate | troopName | title |
| 1342 | 2016-04-28 | Troop B | Metairie Woman Killed on Airline Highway |
TROOP B - NEWS RELEASE April 28, 2016 Metairie Woman Killed on Airline Highway Jefferson Parish – Yesterday evening, Louisiana State Police Troop B investigated a fatal crash at approximately 8:30 pm at US 61 and L&A Road in Jefferson Parish. The crash claimed the life of 30 year old Melrita Spencer of Metairie, LA. The initial investigation revealed that a 1998 Ford truck with a dumpster bed (similar to a garbage truck), driven by 43 year old Byrum Washington of New Orleans, LA, was traveling north on US 61 at the intersection with L&A Road. Washington began making an improper U-turn at the intersection but was unable to complete the turn. He then placed the Ford in reverse and began illegally backing in the southbound lane of US 61. A 2001 Chevrolet Suburban, driven by 52 year old Percy McCray of Metairie, LA, was traveling south on US 61 in the left center lane approaching the intersection with L&A Road. The Chevrolet struck the right rear of the Ford. The Ford did not have headlights or rear brake lights illuminated at the time of the crash. McCray was transported to Ochsner Hospital with severe injuries and the front seat passenger in the Chevrolet, Melrita Spencer, was pronounced dead on the scene. Washington suffered minor injuries. Both drivers and passenger were seat belted at the time of the crash. Washington provided a breath sample and no detectable alcohol was found in his system. McCray submitted to a blood test and toxicology results are pending. The preliminary investigation indicated that Washington was in violation of multiple laws. He was arrested and booked into the Jefferson Parish Correctional Center for Negligent Homicide, Improper Turning, Suspended Driver’s License, Operating an Unsafe Vehicle, No Headlights, No Tail Lights, Improper Backing, Expired Motor Vehicle Inspection, Failure to Register, Expired Registration and Public Intimidation. The crash remains under investigation. According to Louisiana law, drivers are responsible for ensuring that all equipment on their vehicle is in good working order while traveling on Louisiana roadways. If an unsafe vehicle is operated on the highways, serious injury and death can occur. If you witness a hazardous situation, improper equipment or lighting on a vehicle and/or possible impaired driver, please dial *LSP (*577) and you will be directed to the nearest Troop to report that activity. 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 | |||
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