Evangeline Parish – On September 7, 2021, shortly before 8:00 a.m., Louisiana State Police Troop I responded to a two-vehicle crash on Louisiana Highway 106 east of Paradise Lane in Evangeline Parish. The crash claimed the life of 19-year-old Luke A. Fontenot of Oakdale.

The preliminary investigation revealed Fontenot was driving east on LA 106 in a 2013 Nissan Rogue. At the same time, a 2006 International 18-wheeler, pulling a logging trailer, was backing into a worksite on the north side of LA 106. Fontenot’s Nissan struck the side of the International on the passenger side diesel tank in the eastbound travel lane causing both vehicles to become engulfed in flames.

Troopers were unable to immediately determine seat belt usage on the part of either driver due to the severity of damage. Fontenot was pronounced deceased at the scene. The driver of the 18-wheeler suffered only minor injuries and refused medical treatment. He also showed no signs of impairment and submitted a breath sample indicating no alcohol present. This crash remains under investigation.

Louisiana State Troopers would like to take this opportunity to remind motorists to always make good decisions while operating motor vehicles. Never drive while impaired, fatigued, or distracted, always ensure every occupant is properly restrained, and follow all traffic laws. While not all crashes are survivable, taking simple precautions such as these can often mean the difference between life and death.

Troop I has investigated 39 fatal crashes resulting in 48 deaths in 2021.