Aggrostats

Colonel Michael D. Edmonson, Superintendent

Troop I Press Release
For Immediate Release

March 23, 2011

According to investigating troopers, on March 22, 2011, shortly before 7:00 p.m., a 2003 Toyota truck driven by 42-year-old Larry Jenkins of Meridian, MS, was traveling west on LA 96. James Vicknair, 71-years-old from St. Martinville, LA, was driving east on LA 96 in a 2008 Chevrolet truck. A 2010 Mitsubishi passenger car, driven by 45-year-old Phil White of Lafayette, LA, was traveling behind Vicknair. Jenkins crossed the center line and entered the eastbound lane. In an attempt to avoid the crash, Vicknair took evasive action and steered in to the westbound lane. Vicknair was unsuccessful in his attempt to avoid the crash, and was struck head on by Jenkins’ vehicle. White also took evasive action and steered his vehicle into a ditch on the north side of the road.

White was not injured in the crash. Vicknair sustained moderate injuries in the crash and was transported to a local hospital. A passenger in Vicknair’s vehicle, 67-year-old Rosy Vicknair of St. Martinville, LA, died at the hospital as a result of her injuries. Jenkins sustained moderate injuries and was transported to a local hospital.

After being released from the hospital, Jenkins was arrested and booked into the St. Martin Parish Jail for DWI 1st, vehicular homicide, vehicular negligent injuring, driving left of center, and no seat belt.

Impairment is believed to be a factor in this crash. Toxicology samples have been obtained from all the drivers involved and have been submitted to the Louisiana State Police Crime Lab for analysis. This crash remains under investigation.

For More Information Contact:

Tpr. Stephen Hammons
Louisiana State Police
Troop I- Public Affairs
337-262-1917
Stephen.hammons@dps.la.gov
www.LSP.org