| id | cleanReleaseDate | troopName | title |
| 8597 | 2011-06-17 | Troop L | Troopers investigate Fatal Crash on Interstate 12 |
| LOUISIANA STATE POLICE COURTESY LOYALTY SERVICE Colonel Michael D. Edmonson, Superintendent TROOP L NEWS RELEASE For Immediate Release June 17th, 2011 Troopers investigate Fatal Crash on Interstate 12 Slidell, LA – Early this morning at 02:50 am, Louisiana State Police Troop L investigated a fatal crash involving a pedestrian on Interstate 12 approximately half a mile east of the Northshore Mall exit in St. Tammany Parish. Preliminary investigation revealed that prior to the crash, Francesca Chirico, (W/F age 23) of Slidell, LA, had pulled her 2009 Toyota Yaris onto the right shoulder of Interstate 12 eastbound while engaged in an argument with her passenger. As the vehicle remained parked on the shoulder, the argument between the driver and passenger (sister to the driver), Lucia Chirico (W/F age 29) also of Slidell, LA, escalated into a physical confrontation on the eastbound shoulder. During the course of the confrontation, Lucia walked into the eastbound lanes of Interstate 12 where she was struck by a passing charter bus driven by Adrian Bazaldua (H/M age 58) of Houston, TX. Lucia Chirico was pronounced dead at the scene by the St. Tammany Parish Coroner’s Office. Alcohol use is suspected for the both driver and passenger of the Toyota Yaris. Francesca Chirico received no injuries in the crash and was placed under arrest for Driving while Intoxicated. Bazaldua was wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash and received no injuries. Alcohol use is not suspected. Troopers would like to remind motorists to drive safely, never get behind the wheel impaired, and never get into a vehicle with an impaired driver. The consequences of drinking and driving can be costly no matter how many drinks you have consumed. Buzzed Driving is Drunk Driving. 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 Troop L Office: (985) 893-6250 Ext:628 Nicholas.Manale@dps.la.gov www.LSP.org | |||
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