Acadia Parish – Shortly after 7:00 p.m. on February 27, 2022, Louisiana State Police Troop I began investigating a two-vehicle crash on Louisiana Highway 35 near Pointe Noir Road in Acadia Parish. The crash claimed the life of 20-year-old Derrick D. Ceasar, Jr. and 20-year-old Tywon J. Thorn, both of Crowley.

The preliminary investigation revealed a 2000 Buick Century, driven by Ceasar, was traveling south on LA 35 and crossed the center line into the northbound travel lane. At the same time, a 2010 Ford Expedition was traveling north on LA 35. The driver of the Expedition slowed and entered the shoulder in an effort to avoid the oncoming Buick. The driver was unsuccessful and Ceasar’s Buick struck the Ford head-on on the northbound shoulder.

Troopers determined both Ceasar and his passenger, Thorn, were not restrained at the time of the crash. Both were pronounced deceased by the Acadia Parish Coroner’s Office.

The driver of the Expedition was not restrained. She and several passengers in the Expedition were transported to the hospital with minor to moderate injuries. Seat belt and child restraint usage on the part of the other ten is unknown at this time.

Impairment on the part occupants of both drivers is unknown at this time but toxicology results are pending. This crash remains under investigation.

Louisiana State Troopers would like to remind motorist to never drive while impaired, fatigued, or distracted. Always ensure every occupant is properly restrained, being mindful of recent changes in child passenger seat laws. Troop I offers free child seat installation assistance every Wednesday from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. Taking simple precautions such as these can often mean the difference between life and death.

Troop I has investigated 4 fatal crashes resulting in 6 deaths since the beginning of 2022.