TROOP C - NEWS RELEASE
May 12, 2012
Fatality in Stolen Motorcycle Pursuit
Shortly after 8 PM yesterday, Louisiana State Police Troop C investigated a crash on LA 18 in St. John Parish where a motorcyclist died during a pursuit. The investigation revealed that a Saint James Parish Sheriff’s Detective noticed a black 2003 Kawasaki motorcycle on the shoulder of the Veteran Memorial Bridge (LA 3213). As the detective approached the motorcycle to check and see if the driver needed any assistance, the driver, Isaac Jackson Jr. (B/M, age 45, of Edgard, LA), quickly accelerated away from the detective. Jackson exited LA 3213 and headed east on LA 18 towards St. John Parish. The St. James Sheriff’s Office continued to pursue Jackson until they lost sight of him and disengaged the pursuit. Shortly after disengaging the pursuit, the St. James Sheriff’s Office learned that Jackson was involved in a crash further down the road on LA 18.
Jackson, continuing at a high rate of speed, came out of a slight right curve as a 2008 Chevrolet Impala was stopped in the eastbound lane on LA 18. The Impala was being driven by Windal Chester (B/M, age 21, of Raceland, LA), who was wearing his seatbelt. Jackson applied his brakes as the motorcycle slid onto its side. The motorcycle struck the rear of the Impala, ejecting Jackson and splitting the bike in half. The front portion of the motorcycle struck a 1994 Chevrolet truck that was being driven eastbound on LA 18 by Ira Jackson (B/M, age 35, of Vacherie, LA), who was wearing his seatbelt. The rear portion of the motorcycle struck an unoccupied school bus that was parked. Further investigation revealed that the motorcycle that Isaac Jackson was operating was stolen and had switched plates.
Isaac Jackson, who was wearing a US D.O.T. approved helmet, was transported to Saint James Hospital, but died from the injuries sustained in the crash. Windal Chester and Ira Jackson did not receive any injuries.
Investigating Troopers report that alcohol impairment is not a factor in the crash. Windal Chester and Ira Jackson were cleared of any alcohol involvement. Blood was taken from Isaac Jackson, and the test results will be pending at the Louisiana State Police Crime Lab. This crash remains under investigation.
Troopers remind motorists that driving at high speeds is dangerous, and often leads to serious injuries or death in motor vehicle crashes. Motorcyclists must wear a proper US D.O.T. helmet when operating their motorcycle on Louisiana roadways. Although not all crashes are survivable, properly utilizing safety equipment like approved motorcycle helmets and seatbelts decrease your risk of serious injury or death.
Motorists that witness hazardous situations are urged to call *LSP (*577) and report that activity to the Louisiana State Police.
Contact Information:
Tpr. Evan Harrell
Public Information Officer
Louisiana State Police – Troop C
Office- (985) 857-3680
Cell- (985) 855-0241
Evan.Harrell@dps.la.gov
www.LSP.org
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