Aggrostats

The deceased has been identified as 71-year-old Patricia Vitley of St. Bernard. Notification has been made to Vitley’s next of kin.

Chalmette – On Thursday, August 20, 2020 at approximately 9:30 am, Troopers with Louisiana State Police Troop B investigated a two vehicle fatal crash on LA 46 near Congressman Hebert Drive in St. Bernard Parish. The crash claimed the life of a St. Bernard resident whose identity is being withheld pending family notification.

The initial investigation conducted by Troopers revealed the driver of a white Ford Explorer was traveling northbound on LA 46 in the left lane near the intersection of Congressman Hebert Drive. At the same time, 42-year-old Chuc Dinh of Chalmette was backing out of a private driveway located at 8429 West St. Bernard Highway (LA 46). For reasons still under investigation, Dinh’s vehicle struck the rear left hand side of the Explorer, causing the driver to lose control of the vehicle and ultimately crash into a nearby building. Despite being properly restrained, the driver of the Explorer suffered severe injuries and was pronounced deceased on the scene. Dinh was properly restrained and was not injured. Impairment on both driver’s part is not suspected, however standard toxicology samples were taken and will be submitted to the Louisiana State Police Crime Lab for further analysis. Criminal charges are pending further investigation. This crash remains under investigation and there is no further information available at this time.

Troopers wish to remind motorists to always make good decisions while in a motor vehicle. Never drive while impaired, fatigued, or distracted, always ensure every occupant is properly restrained, and follow all traffic laws. While not all crashes are survivable, taking simple precautions such as these can often mean the difference between life and death.

Contact Information:
TFC Monroe Dillon
Louisiana State Police
Public Affairs Section
Office: (504) 471-2780
Monroe.Dillon@LA.Gov