Aggrostats

Troop A- News Release

September 12, 2008

GROSSE TETE- Louisiana State Police – Troop A is currently investigating a two vehicle fatal crash on I-10 eastbound near milepost 138, in Iberville Parish.

Initial investigation indicates that a Ford Explorer was westbound on I-10, when it lost control and crossed the grass median into the eastbound travel lanes. As the Explorer entered the eastbound lanes it was struck broadside on the left side of the vehicle by a Chevrolet Tahoe. The Tahoe was traveling eastbound on I-10 in the left travel lane as it struck the out of control Ford Explorer. The Ford Explorer overturned and then caught fire. The driver was able to be pulled from the heavily damaged vehicle by other motorists. The driver and front seat passenger of the Chevrolet Tahoe were pronounced dead on scene. Three other occupants in the Chevrolet Tahoe were transported to local hospitals with moderate injuries. The driver of the Ford Explorer was transported to a local hospital also with serious injuries. It is unknown if the two deceased were wearing seatbelts at the time of the crash.

UPDATE:

The deceased driver of the Chevrolet Tahoe was identified as Warren Rideau (B/M, age 53). The deceased passenger of the Chevrolet Tahoe was identified as Marie L. Bonhomme (B/F, age 83). The three rear passengers were transported to Our Lady of the Lake Hospital with moderate injuries. Passengers were identified as Jacqueline Rideau (B/F, age unk), a 12-year old B/F, and a 2-year old B/F who was in a child restraint. The family was evacuating from the Lake Charles area.

The driver of the Ford Explorer was identified as Jordan I. Donnelly (W/F, age 18). She was transported to Our Lady of the Lake Hospital in extremely critical condition. Alcohol is not suspected to be a factor in this crash.