| id | cleanReleaseDate | troopName | title |
| 1952 | 2013-06-03 | Troop B | Unrestrained Driver Killed in Crash in St. John the Baptist Parish |
TROOP B - NEWS RELEASE June 3, 2013 Unrestrained Driver Killed in Crash in St. John the Baptist Parish This morning, at approximately 8:45 AM, Louisiana State Police Troop B was notified of a serious injury crash on US 61 just north of Walnut Street in LaPlace, LA. Rathert J. Able (W/M, age 36) of Prairieville, LA, was seriously injured in the crash and was transported to River Parishes Hospital where he was later pronounced dead. Preliminary investigation revealed that Able was driving a 1997 Mazda pick-up truck north on US 61 in the right lane. The Mazda began to accelerate suddenly and drift into the left lane. The Mazda struck a 2007 Chevrolet Tahoe, driven by Shawn Louque (W/M, age 34) of LaPlace, LA, in the right rear quarter panel and continued over the center turn lane and southbound lanes of US 61. The Mazda then struck a culvert and came to rest. Able was not wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash. Impairment is not considered as a factor at this time, however toxicology results are pending an autopsy. Speed is believed to be a factor. The crash remains under investigation. While not all crashes are survivable, 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: TFC Melissa Matey Louisiana State Police – Troop B Public Affairs Unit Office: (504) 471-2780 Melissa.matey@dps.la.gov www.LSP.org www.facebook.com/LouisianaStatePolice | |||
| No attachments for this article. | |||