Simmesport – On Saturday, July 9, 2022, just after 11:00 p.m., Troopers assigned to Louisiana State Police Troop E began investigating a two-vehicle fatality crash. The crash occurred on LA Hwy 105, just south Begnaud Road and claimed the life of 62-year-old Blaine Lemoine.

The initial investigation revealed a Husqvarna lawn mower, driven by Lemoine, was traveling north on LA Hwy 105. At the same time, a 2012 Ford Fusion, driven by 24-year-old Hunter Moreau of Melville, was traveling behind the Husqvarna. Moreau struck the lawn mower in the rear, which resulted in Lemoine being ejected.

Lemoine suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased on the scene by the Avoyelles Parish Coroner. Moreau, who was unrestrained, was not injured in the crash.

After a thorough investigation, Moreau was arrested and charged with vehicular homicide, DWI 1st offense, and no seat belt. Toxicology samples were obtained and submitted for analysis. The crash remains under investigation.

Troopers would like to remind all motorists to make good decisions, such as buckling your seat belt, obeying all posted speed limits, and avoiding all distractions while driving. In addition, motorists must also be reminded that alcohol and other drugs have many effects on the body. Alcohol and other drugs can impair visual ability, alter the sense of time and space, impair fine motor skills needed to operate a motor vehicle, and decrease reaction times.

In 2022, Troop E has investigated 19 fatal crashes, resulting in 20 deaths.