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After the original news release, Louisiana State Police Troop C learned of a second Good Samaritan who stopped to help Mr. Lapeyrouse save a family from drowning when their vehicle entered a canal and became submerged.

Initially, the second person’s identity was unknown. Troopers were able to eventually identify Chase Dupre of Chauvin as the second person who stopped with Mr. Lapeyrouse after witnessing the crash. Both Mr. Dupre and Mr. Lapeyrouse entered the water and were able to open a door on the Toyota. Both of these men were able to work together to rescue the family of four.

Louisiana State Police Troop C is thankful for both of these men who selflessly entered a dangerous situation to help save the lives of many.

 

TROOP C ORIGINAL NEWS RELEASE
December 7, 2022

 

Good Samaritan Saves Family from Drowning

After Vehicle Crashes into Canal

 

Gibson – On December 7, 2022, shortly after 8:00 a.m., Troopers with Louisiana State Police Troop C responded to a single-vehicle crash involving a submerged vehicle on LA Highway 182 near LA Highway 662 in Assumption Parish. The four occupants of the vehicle, two of which were small children, were pulled to safety by a man who witnessed the crash.

Crash investigation found a 2007 Toyota Corolla was traveling east on LA Hwy 182 when it traveled off the roadway to the right, entered a canal, and quickly became submerged in the water. Due to the thick mud and marsh, the occupants of the Toyota were unable to open the doors and exit the vehicle.

Jeff Lapeyrouse of Bourg witnessed the crash, quickly pulled over, and rushed to help. Mr. Lapeyrouse entered the water, was able to successfully open one of the Toyota’s doors, and removed all four occupants to safety. Only minor injuries were reported in the crash.

Louisiana State Police Troop C is thankful for the efforts of Mr. Lapeyrouse. His quick action and willingness to help prevented this crash from becoming a tragedy.