Aggrostats

The initial investigation by State Police revealed that the crash occurred as Rasmussen was riding a 2011 Honda motorcycle at a high rate of speed eastbound on Fremaux Ave. At the same time 26 year old Juan C. Martinez, also of Slidell, was driving a 2004 Hyundai Tiburon northbound on Brookter Rd. Martinez was attempting to make a left turn off of Brookter Rd. onto Fremaux Ave., and failed to yield to Rasmussen. Rasmussen laid his Honda down on its side in an attempt to avoid striking the Hyundai, but was unable to do so. Rasmussen was ejected from the motorcycle, and he struck the driver’s side of the Hyundai.

Despite the fact that he was wearing a safety helmet, Rasmussen suffered fatal injuries from the crash. Troopers do not suspect impairment to have been a factor in this crash on the part of either driver; however, routine toxicology samples were obtained from both drivers. Excessive speed on the part of Rasmussen is considered to be a factor. Martinez was placed under arrest booked into the St. Tammany Parish jail for Failure to Yield from a Stop Sign Resulting in a Death and No Driver’s License.

Troopers would like to remind motorists to safely "share the road" with motorcycles and to remain alert to help keep motorcyclists safe. Motorists should always be aware of their surroundings while driving by constantly scanning the roadways of approaching vehicles. Motorcycle riders should always exercise caution while driving, especially in heavy traffic. Troopers also urge the public to remain vigilant while driving, never drive while fatigued or impaired, and avoid distracting activities, especially the temptations of electronic devices that can substantially divert a driver’s attention away from the road.

Contact Information:
TFC Jared L. Sandifer
Louisiana State Police
Public Affairs Section
Office: (225) 754-8524
jared.sandifer@dps.la.gov
www.LSP.org
www.facebook.com/LouisianaStatePolice