| id | cleanReleaseDate | troopName | title |
| 2062 | 2011-12-28 | Troop B | Motorcycle Crash on Belle Chasse Highway Claims a Life |
Troop B - NEWS RELEASE Motorcycle Crash on Belle Chasse Highway Claims a Life Troop B – Yesterday, at approximately 6:30PM, Louisiana State Police Troop B was notified of a fatal motor vehicle crash on LA 23 south at Byrd Street in Plaquemines Parish. Preliminary investigation revealed that a 2011 Nissan Altima, driven by Paige Sylve (B/F, age 19) of Belle Chasse, LA, was traveling north on LA 23 and entered the left turn lane. A 2006 Suzuki motorcycle, driven by Michael Bell (W/M, age 25) of Belle Chasse, LA, was traveling south on LA 23. The Nissan turned left crossing the southbound lanes of LA 23 at Byrd Street and struck the Suzuki on the right rear passenger side. The impact caused the Suzuki to rotate and come to rest in the right lane of LA 23 south. Bell was wearing a DOT approved helmet and was partially ejected from the Suzuki. Bell was transported to Ochsner Westbank Hospital where he later succumbed to his injuries and died. Sylve and two passengers were transported to West Jefferson Hospital with moderate injuries. Impairment is unknown at this time, however blood was drawn from Sylve and the results are pending at the Louisiana State Police Crime Lab. The crash remains under investigation and charges are pending. According to statistics from the Louisiana Highway Safety Commission, in 2010 motorcyclists were involved in over 1800 crashes across the state resulting in 73 fatalities. State Police would like to remind ALL motorists to always be aware of your surroundings while driving by constantly scanning the roadways for approaching vehicles from intersections and private driveways. It is always a good idea to double check approaching vehicles on a highway before you enter the roadway or attempt to cross into a median opening. There is never a good excuse to not utilize proper safety equipment while operating a motor vehicle such as seatbelts and DOT approved motorcycle helmets. 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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