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Belle Chasse – On January 1, 2022, just after 2:00 am, Troopers with Louisiana State Police Troop B responded to a two vehicle crash on LA 23 near Windmill Lane in Belle Chasse. The crash ultimately claimed the life of 28-year-old Anara J. Miller of Port Sulphur.

The initial investigation revealed that Miller was driving a 2018 Ford Fiesta south on LA 23 in the left lane at the same time that 44-year-old Jose Garcia-Bonilla was driving a 2022 Subaru Ascent in the right lane. Garcia-Bonilla attempted to conduct a left turn from the right lane, into the median, entering the path of the Ford. As a result, the front of the Ford struck the left side of the Subaru.

Miller, who was unrestrained at the time of the crash, suffered severe injuries and was transported to a local hospital for treatment. Garcia-Bonilla was restrained and suffered minor injuries. On January 14, 2021, Miller died as a result of the injuries sustained in the crash.

Impairment on the part of Miller is unknown and routine toxicology results are pending. On the date of the crash, Garcia-Bonilla submitted a blood sample which was sent for analysis. The results of the analysis indicate the driver was not impaired. 

As a result of the preliminary investigation, Garcia-Bonilla was issued a citation for Improper Turn. After completion, the crash report will submitted to the Plaquemines Parish District Attorney’s Office for consult of additional charges. 

Troopers would like to remind motorists of the importance of safe decisions behind the wheel. 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.