Aggrostats

St. Charles Parish – This morning, shortly before 7:00 am, Louisiana State Police Troop B investigated a fatal crash in St. Charles Parish on LA 631 at White Lane. The crash claimed the life of 39 year-old Darlene Cortez of Des Allemands, LA.

Preliminary investigation revealed that Cortez was driving a 2006 Hyundai east on LA 631. Robin Gassenberger Jr. (age 37) of Des Allemands, LA, was driving a 2000 Chevrolet Tracker west on LA 631. For reasons still under investigation, the Chevrolet partially left the roadway to the right then re-entered LA 631. The Chevrolet then crossed the center line and partially entered into the east travel lane striking the Hyundai. The impact caused the Hyundai to rotate and leave the roadway entering a ditch. Cortez was pronounced dead on the scene. Gassenberger was transported to the Interim LSU Hospital Level 1 Trauma Center with severe injuries.

Impairment is suspected for Gassenberger and toxicology tests will be performed by the Louisiana State Police Crime Lab. Cortez was wearing a seat belt, however Gassenberger was not. The crash remains under investigation and criminal charges are pending.

Whether impaired through alcohol, drugs, or a combination of the two, the consequences of driving while impaired remain the same. Making poor decisions in a vehicle leads to serious injuries and deaths every day across the state. Making the responsible decision can mean the difference between life and death.

Motorists that witness hazardous situations are urged to call *LSP (*577) and report that activity to the Louisiana State Police.

Contact Information:
TFC Melissa Matey
Louisiana State Police – Troop B
Public Affairs Unit
Office: (504) 471-2780
Melissa.matey@la.gov
www.LSP.org
www.facebook.com/LouisianaStatePolice