| id | cleanReleaseDate | troopName | title |
| 8621 | 2012-01-28 | Troop L | Loranger Resident arrested in LA 16 Fatal Crash |
| TROOP L NEWS RELEASE January 28th, 2012 Loranger Resident arrested in LA 16 Fatal Crash Amite, LA – This afternoon at approximately 5:45 pm, Louisiana State Police Troop L investigated a two vehicle fatal crash on LA 16 at its intersection with LA 1054 in Tangipahoa Parish. Troopers’ investigation revealed that the crash occurred as a 2005 Toyota Scion was stopped in the eastbound lane of LA 16 preparing to turn north onto LA 1054. As the Toyota remained stopped in the roadway, it was struck from behind by an eastbound 1999 Ford pickup truck driven by Michael Bitterolf (W/M age 72) of Loranger, LA. After impact, both vehicles rotated counterclockwise and came to rest in the westbound lane of LA 16. Driver of the Toyota Scion, Paige Kibodeaux (W/F age 22) of Youngsville, LA, was pronounced dead at the scene by the Tangipahoa Parish Coroner’s Office. She was wearing her seatbelt at the time of the crash. Bitterolf was not wearing a seatbelt and was transported to North Oaks Medical Center with moderate injuries. Upon release from the hospital, he will be booked into the Tangipahoa Parish Jail on charges of Negligent Homicide, Careless Operation, and No Seatbelt. Alcohol and/or drug impairment is not suspected to be a factor in the crash with toxicology results from each driver pending at the Louisiana State Police Crime Lab. While the cause of the crash remains under investigation, troopers urge the public to remain vigilant while driving and avoid distracting activities, especially the temptations of electronic devices that can substantially divert a driver’s attention away from the road. Motor vehicle crashes are unexpected events. By taking precautionary steps including never driving while distracted or impaired, motorists can substantially reduce their risk of being involved and/or injured in a crash. 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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