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Source: http://lsp.org/news_detail.html?id=7137

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7137 2015-12-23 Troop I Train Collides with a Passenger Car Claiming the Lives of Three People and Leaving Three Critically Injured

TROOP I - NEWS RELEASE

December 27, 2015
*****UPDATE*****

Louisiana State Police Troop I was contacted and informed two passengers involved the crash have been pronounced dead. 12 year old Chase Day of New Iberia was pronounced dead on December 25th and 49 year old Stephen Leblanc of New Iberia was pronounced dead on December 26th.

Train Collides with a Passenger Car Claiming the Lives of Three People and Leaving Three Critically Injured


Iberia Parish- On December 22, 2015, shortly before 6:00 p.m., Louisiana State Police Troop I responded to a crash involving a passenger train and a car off of LA Highway 88 near LA Highway 182 in Iberia Parish. The crash claimed the lives of three people and critically injured three.

The preliminary investigation revealed that a 2006 Ford Taurus, operated by 70 year old Phyllis Leblanc of New Iberia, was traveling north on LA 88 and stopped on top of a railroad grade. An Amtrak Train was traveling east and struck the passenger car while it was stopped on the tracks. After impact the passenger car was pushed completely of the roadway.


Leblanc, as well as, two minor children were killed as a result of injuries sustained in the crash. The Iberia Parish Coroner’s Office arrived on scene and pronounced all three dead. Three other passengers, including two minor children and 49 year old Steve Leblanc of New Iberia, sustained critical injuries and were transported to area hospitals for treatment.


Impairment is not suspected, but standard toxicology samples were obtained and sent to the Louisiana State Police Crime Lab for analysis. This crash remains under investigation.

The crash occurred at a crossing with active warning devices (flashing lights, gates, or bells). Louisiana state law requires motorists to yield the right of way to trains whether active warning devices are present or not.

Troopers want to take this time to remind motorists that train operators have the ability to stop the train, but it can take several minutes for the engine to come to a complete stop. That is why it is so important to look and listen for trains when approaching a railroad crossing and to always yield the right of way to trains.

For more information about rail safety or to request a free safety presentation, please visit the Louisiana Operation Lifesaver web site at www.laoperationlifesaver.org or contact your nearest Louisiana State Police Public Information Officer.

Contact Information:

M/T Brooks David

Louisiana State Police

Public Affairs – Troop I

Office: (337) 262-5880

brooks.david@la.gov

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