| id | cleanReleaseDate | troopName | title |
| 2048 | 2011-11-02 | Troop B | Lack of Seat Belt Use is Factor in Fatal Crash |
Troop B - NEWS RELEASE Lack of Seat Belt Use is Factor in Fatal Crash Troop B – This morning, shortly before 8:00 AM, Louisiana State Police Troop B investigated a fatal crash on US 61 (Airline Highway) near West 10th Street in St. John the Baptist Parish. Preliminary investigation revealed that a 2008 Nissan Altima, driven by Angelle Cordoves (W/F, age 34) of Reserve, LA, was traveling on US 61 north and began making a U-turn, crossing over the southbound lanes of US 61. The Nissan was then struck by a 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser, driven by Penelope T. Chachere (W/F, age 64) of Garyville, LA. Chachere and a 13 year old passenger were transported to River Parishes Hospital with moderate injuries. Both Chachere and the passenger were properly seat belted into the vehicle at the time of the crash. Chachere submitted to an alcohol / drug toxicology and those results are pending at the Louisiana State Police Crime Lab. Cordoves was transported to River Parishes Hospital with severe injuries and she was later pronounced dead. Cordoves was not wearing a seat belt and impairment is not suspected. However, toxicology results are pending the outcome of the autopsy. In 2010, approximately 59% of the fatalities experienced on Louisiana highways were unrestrained at the time of the crash. While not all crashes are survivable, seat belts can greatly decrease the occupant’s chance of death and may greatly reduce the extent of injury. 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: Trooper Melissa Matey Public Affairs Unit Louisiana State Police – Troop B Office: (504) 471-2780 melissa.matey@dps.la.gov www.LSP.org | |||
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