| id | cleanReleaseDate | troopName | title |
| 7676 | 2012-02-16 | Troop I | Impairment Suspected in Fatal Crash |
Troop I - NEWS RELEASE For Immediate Release February 16, 2012 Impairment Suspected in Fatal Crash St. Landry Parish- Last night, troopers with Louisiana State Police Troop I investigated a single vehicle crash on LA Highway 103 at Church Street which claimed the life of an Opelousas man. According to investigating troopers, on February 15, 2011, at about 10:30 p.m., 36-year-old Joseph Charles Jr. of Opelousas, was driving a 1999 Dodge truck north on LA Highway 103. Charles failed to stop a stop sign at the intersection of LA Highway 103 and Church Street he continued traveling straight hitting a roadway sign then subsequently entered the Bayou Teche. When troopers and emergency responders arrived on scene they attempted to locate Charles, but were unsuccessful. With the assistance of the special operations sections of the St. Landry Parish Sheriff’s Office, the St. Martin Parish Sheriff’s Office and a K-9 with the Patterson Police Department, Charles’ body was recovered from the Bayou Teche on February 16, 2012, around 3:15 p.m. The St. Landry Parish Coroner pronounced Charles dead at the scene. Impairment is suspected to be a factor in this crash. Toxicology samples were obtained and have been submitted to the Louisiana State Police Crime Lab for analysis. Troopers are also investigating whether or not Charles was wearing his seatbelt at the time of the crash. This crash remains under investigation. Impaired driving continues to be a leading cause for fatal crashes across our state. State Police will continue its enforcement campaign to locate and remove impaired drivers from the road. With educational programs, troopers will work to continue educating the public about the dangers of impaired driving. As Mardi Gras approaches, troopers remind drivers to make the responsible decision and designate a driver. For More Information Contact: | |||
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