Aggrostats

TROOP L NEWS RELEASE
March 23, 2019

The initial investigation led Troopers to determine that the crash occurred as Williams was driving a 2001 Cadillac Catera eastbound on Interstate 12 in the right lane. A 2016 Freightliner driven by 60-year-old Rolando J. Rivas of Denver, CO. was traveling eastbound in the left lane. Rivas reached down to retrieve a cell phone, which had fallen on the floor. As Rivas reached for the device, his tractor trailer traveled from the left lane into the right lane. After crossing into the right lane, Rivas’ vehicle crashed into the left side of Williams’ Cadillac. Following the crash, both vehicles traveled off the right side of the roadway.

Williams was not wearing his seatbelt at the time of the crash. He was ejected from his vehicle and sustained fatal injuries. He was pronounced deceased on-scene by the St. Tammany Parish Coroner’s Office. Rivas was properly restrained. He was transported to Ochsner Medical Center-North Shore, where he was treated for minor injuries. Impairment is not suspected to have contributed to the crash. As part of the on-going investigation, blood samples were collected from both drivers and will be submitted to the crime lab for analysis. Rivas was cited for Improper Lane Use. On completion of the investigation, Troopers will forward the findings to the St. Tammany Parish District Attorney’s Office for consultation of any additional criminal charges.

Troopers would like to remind motorists of the importance of safe decisions behind the wheel. Please take a moment to speak with your loved ones about the importance of their safe decisions. Remind them to always wear a seatbelt, never drive impaired, and to avoid distractions. The conversation could be the difference in a serious crash.

Contact Information:
S/T Dustin Dwight
Louisiana State Police
Public Affairs Section
Office: (985) 893-6250
Dustin.Dwight@LA.gov
www.lsp.org
facebook.com/LouisianaStatePolice
twitter.com/LAStatePolice