Unrestrained driver killed on I-55 in Manchac

Published 5:14 pm Sunday, July 7, 2019

 MANCHAC – Authorities with Louisiana State Police are withholding the name of the victim of a fatal crash that occurred on I-55 Sunday morning pending notification to next of kin. 

At approximately 3:48 a.m. Sunday, July 7, troopers from Louisiana State Police Troop L were notified of a fatal crash on the I-55 northbound bridge, just north of Manchac in Tangipahoa Parish.   

The initial investigation determined a 2008 Nissan Maxima was traveling northbound on I-55.  For reasons still under investigation, the Maxima stopped in the left lane and was struck by a 2017 Hyundai Sonata.  

The driver of the Maxima was unrestrained and sustained fatal injuries in the crash.  The driver and passenger in the Sonata were properly restrained at the time of the crash. Both occupants in the Sonata sustained moderate injuries and were transported to a local hospital.  

As part of the ongoing investigation, blood samples were collected from both drivers for scientific analysis.    

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,” Louisiana State Police said in a press release. “Remind them to always wear a seatbelt, never drive impaired, and to avoid distractions.  The conversation could be the difference in a serious crash.”       For more information, contact Louisiana State Police Public Affairs at 985-893-6250 or follow Louisiana State Police on Facebook and Twitter.