| id | cleanReleaseDate | troopName | title |
| 7027 | 2018-03-16 | Troop I | Baker Man Killed in Multi-Vehicle Crash on Interstate 49 in St. Landry Parish |
TROOP I NEWS RELEASE March 16, 2018 Baker Man Killed in Multi-Vehicle Crash on Interstate 49 in St. Landry Parish St. Landry Parish – On March 15, 2018, shortly after 1:30 pm, Troopers with Troop I were notified of a nine-vehicle fatality crash on Interstate 49 north near exit 23. The crash took the life of 72-year-old William Poche of Baker. The preliminary investigation revealed 48-year-old Terry Gates was driving northbound in the outside lane of Interstate 49 in a 2003 Kenworth tractor-trailer. Gates failed to slow down for slow moving traffic and swerved into the inside lane. Gates struck a 2017 Toyota Corolla being operated by Poche and numerous other vehicles in the inside lane, causing a chain reaction of crashes. During the chain of events, the Kenworth rolled onto the top of the Toyota and came to rest partially in the median. Poche was wearing a seat belt, but sustained fatal injuries. He was pronounced deceased on scene by the St. Landry Parish Coroner’s Office. Gates was wearing a seat belt and sustained moderate injuries. He was transported to Opelousas General for treatment. Seven other drivers and several passengers sustained minor to moderate injuries and were transported to local hospitals for treatment. Impairment is not suspected to be a factor in the crash. Standard toxicology samples were taken and submitted for analysis. Gates was cited for careless operation. This crash remains under investigation and other charges may be filed. Drivers can effectively reduce the chances of being involved in a crash by ensuring that while behind the wheel of a vehicle you remain focused solely on the task of driving. Heed all posted speed limits and remain focused on the roadway at all times. While not all crashes are survivable, making good choices while traveling such as never driving while impaired, always ensuring every occupant is properly restrained, and avoiding all distractions can greatly increase your chances of surviving a crash. For child restraint laws please visit our website at www.lsp.org. Contact Information: | |||
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