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Oscar – Shortly after 7:00 p.m. on April 25, 2022, Troopers from Louisiana State Police Troop A began investigating a two vehicle fatal crash on LA Hwy 78 west of LA Hwy 1 in Pointe Coupee Parish. The crash claimed the life of 27-year-old Amber Crawford of Ventress. 

The initial investigation revealed the crash occurred as 34-year-old Andre Slaughter of New Roads and his five passengers were traveling west on LA Hwy 78 in a 2016 Chrysler 300. At the same time, Crawford was traveling east on LA Hwy 78 in a 2017 Ford Fusion. For reasons still under investigation, Slaughter crossed the centerline into the opposing lane, which resulted in the Chrysler striking the Ford head-on.

Crawford was unrestrained at the time of the crash and sustained fatal injuries.  She was pronounced deceased on the scene.  Slaughter was also unrestrained at the time of the crash and sustained severe injuries. He was transported to a local hospital for treatment. The five passengers in the Chrysler, who aged from a 3-year-old to a 13-year-old, were all unrestrained at the time of the crash and sustained severe injuries. They were also transported to a local hospital for treatment. As part of the ongoing investigation, toxicology samples were obtained from both drivers for analysis. This crash remains under investigation and charges are pending.

 Every occupant in a motor vehicle is required by Louisiana law to be properly restrained in a seat belt or child restraint. It is a proven fact that car seats and booster seats save lives and prevent injuries.  Child safety seats offer the best protection for children in the event of a crash.  However, approximately 3 out of 4 car seats are not used correctly.  This misuse rate can be attributed to the wide variety of car seats available, the range of children’s weights and heights, and the vast array of vehicles in today’s market.

Troop A is a nationally recognized Child Seat Fitting Station.  Certified car seat technicians are available every Tuesday from 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. on 17801 Highland Road in Baton Rouge. If you have questions about your child’s seat or just want to make sure your seat is installed correctly, please visit Troop A.  You can also visit: Louisiana Highway Safety Commission to find the nearest fitting station in your area. Please view all statewide events and updated safety information at BuckleUpLouisiana.