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Marrero – On September 10, 2021 around 11 p.m., Troopers with Louisiana State Police Troop B responded to a two-vehicle crash on LA 3134 (Leo Kerner Boulevard) near LA 45 (Barataria Boulevard) in Marrero, LA. The crash ultimately claimed the life of 53-year-old Chris Dufrene, Jr. of Lafitte, La.

The initial investigation revealed that Dufrene was driving south on LA 3134 in a 2009 Chevrolet Malibu when it struck the rear of a 2017 Kia Forte at a high rate of speed. After the initial collision, the Malibu veered left, struck a tree in the median, became partially airborne and rotated before coming to rest in the median.

Dufrene, who was unrestrained at the time of the crash, suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the Kia suffered minor injuries and was transported to a local hospital for treatment. Impairment on the part of Dufrene is a suspected factor in the crash, routine toxicology samples were taken and will be submitted for analysis as a part of the ongoing investigation.

Troopers would like to remind motorists of the importance of safe decisions behind the wheel. Impairment continues to be a leading cause of fatal crashes. Have a plan and designate a driver before you decide to drink. While not all crashes are survivable, wearing a seatbelt greatly reduces the chances of being killed or seriously injured in a crash. Having a plan and making safe decisions could be the difference for tomorrow.