| id | cleanReleaseDate | troopName | title |
| 8087 | 2013-09-07 | Troop L | Ponchatoula Pedestrian Struck and Killed on Interstate 12 |
TROOP L NEWS RELEASE September 7, 2013 Ponchatoula Pedestrian Struck and Killed on Interstate 12 Hammond, LA – This morning shortly before 9:00am, 27 year old Ponchatoula resident Crystal Joiner was struck and killed by a vehicle as she walked across the westbound lanes of Interstate 12. The crash took place approximately two miles west of the LA 445 / Robert exit in Tangipahoa Parish. Prior to the crash, Joiner and her boyfriend, 46 year old Tod Reddicks, were driving east on Interstate 12 when the couple became involved in an argument. As Reddicks brought the vehicle to a stop on the eastbound shoulder, Joiner exited, crossed both the eastbound and westbound lanes of I-12, and began walking along the westbound shoulder. Reddicks followed Joiner across the interstate and the two continued walking along the westbound shoulder when Joiner abruptly walked into the travel lane directly into the path of a westbound 2003 Chevrolet Tracker. Joiner was subsequently struck by the Chevrolet resulting in fatal injuries. Joiner was pronounced dead at the scene by the Tangipahoa Parish Coroner’s Office and is suspected of being impaired at the time of the crash. Toxicology results are pending. The driver of the Chevrolet Tracker, 60 year old Ethel LeBlanc of Bogalusa, LA, was properly restrained and received no injuries in the crash. No charges are expected to be filed. Troopers urge both motorists and pedestrians to remain vigilant while on area roadways and pay close attention to their surroundings. Louisiana State Law prohibits pedestrians on interstate shoulders and requires the use of sidewalks where accessible. While the dangers of impaired driving are evident, the safe consumption of alcohol is also the responsibility of passengers who can become dangerous distractions while riding in a motor vehicle. For the safety of all occupants, passengers should conduct themselves in such a manner as to not distract the driver and ensure a safe trip for everyone traveling on our roadways. Contact Information: TFC Nick Manale Louisiana State Police Public Affairs Unit Office: (985) 893-6250 Ext:628 Nicholas.Manale@la.gov www.LSP.org www.facebook.com/LouisianaStatePolice | |||
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