Excessive speed continues to factor into preventable fatal crashes: State Police

Published 10:37 am Monday, November 26, 2018

RESERVE — Speeding is cited as a major factor of a fatal weekend wreck in St. John the Baptist Parish, a persistent and deadly problem in the area, authorities said.

At least nine crashes have been caused by speeding in 2018, according to Troop B officials with Louisiana State Police.

“Each of these crashes were preventable,” Senior Trooper Melissa Matey said. “Obeying speed limits, driving sober, using seat belts properly and avoiding distractions can save lives. Please take the few extra seconds and buckle up, it could save your life.”

It was Sunday that State Police identified 26-year-old Dillon Arabie of Thibodaux as the victim of a crash that took place shortly before 1 a.m. Saturday on Interstate 10 West at milepost 208.1 between Reserve and Garyville.

Preliminary investigation revealed a Chevrolet pick-up truck driven by Arabie was traveling west on I-10 in the right lane at a high rate of speed. As the Chevrolet approached vehicles in the right lane, Arabie abruptly moved into the left lane and lost control of the vehicle.

The driver swerved back to the right and ran off the road, State Police said, entered the tree line and struck several trees. The driver was not wearing a seat belt and was ejected.

Arabie was pronounced dead on the scene. Impairment is unknown and toxicology tests are pending an autopsy.

The crash remains under investigation.