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Gonzales – On December 26, 2022, shortly after 3:30 p.m., Troopers with Louisiana State Police Troop A began investigating a two-vehicle crash on US 61 south of LA 939 (South Purpera Avenue) in Ascension Parish.  The crash ultimately claimed the life of 39-year-old Brandi Hall of Darrow.

The preliminary investigation revealed that Jennie Alexander of Hammond, was driving a 2008 Nissan Frontier headed north on US 61.   At the same time, a 2020 Chevrolet Equinox was headed south in the left lane on US 61.  For reasons still being investigated, Alexander exited the roadway to the right, re-entered the northbound lanes, crossed the median, and struck the Equinox head-on in the southbound lane.

Hall was the front passenger in the Equinox and was unrestrained at the time of the crash.  Hall suffered fatal injuries as a result of the crash and was pronounced deceased on the scene.  Alexander was properly restrained and transported to local hospital due to minor injuries sustained in the crash.  The driver of the Equinox was not properly restrained and was transported to a local hospital to be treated for moderate injuries.  In addition, there was juvenile rear passenger in the Equinox who was properly restrained, and transported to a local hospital to be evaluated.

Impairment on the part of Alexander is unknown at this time.  During the course of the investigation, Alexander was arrested for Negligent Homicide, Negligent Injuring, and Careless Operation and booked in the Ascension Parish Jail.  A toxicology sample was obtained from both drivers and will be submitted for analysis.    This crash remains under investigation.

While not all crashes are survivable, statistics demonstrate that properly worn restraints can significantly reduce your risk of being injured or killed in a crash. Louisiana law requires that every person in a vehicle, regardless of seating position, always remain buckled up. Properly wearing your seat belt is one of the most effective ways to save your life and reduce injuries in crashes.