Lafayette Parish – On May 10, 2022, shortly after 4:30 a.m., Louisiana State Police Troop I was notified of a two-vehicle crash on Louisiana Highway 343 near Moon Court Road in Lafayette Parish. The crash ultimately claimed the life of 59-year-old Lenh C. Vong of Kaplan.

The initial investigation by State Police revealed Vong was traveling north on LA 343 in a 2022 Honda Accord. As Vong slowed make a right turn into a private driveway, she was struck from behind by a 2018 Dodge Durango being driven by 33-year-old Jessica Rodriguez of Rayne. After striking the Accord, both vehicles ran off the roadway.

Despite being restrained, Vong was critically injured. She was transported to a local hospital where she died as a result of her injuries. Rodriguez was not restrained but suffered only minor injuries. She was transported to a local hospital and treated before being released.

Standard toxicology results are pending for Vong. Rodriguez submitted a breath sample which indicated no alcohol present and she displayed no signs of impairment. She was cited for LA RS 32:58 Careless Operation and LA RS 32:295.1 No Seat Belt. This crash remained under investigation.

Louisiana State Troopers remind motorists that, while not all crashes are survivable, statistics show the chances of surviving a crash rise significantly when properly restrained. Making good choices while in motor vehicles such as always ensuring every occupant is properly restrained, not driving impaired, and not being distracted behind the wheel can often mean the difference between life and death.

Troop I has investigated 9 fatal crashes resulting in 11 deaths in 2022.