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Ethel – Earlier today, Troopers with Louisiana State Police Troop A began investigating a two-vehicle crash on LA 19 south of LA 956 in East Feliciana Parish. The crash ultimately claimed the life of 32-year-old Arieana Sanchez Whitfield of Ethel.

The preliminary investigation revealed that Whitfield was driving a 2007 Nissan Xterra headed south on LA 19.   At the same time, a 2014 Mercedes-Benz Sedan was headed north on La 19.  For reasons still being investigated, Whitfield attempted to pass a vehicle in a passing zone and struck the Mercedes head-on.

Whitfield, who was not restrained at the time of the crash, was transported to a local hospital where she was pronounced deceased.  The driver of the Mercedes was properly restrained and transported to a local hospital to be treated for moderate injuries.  As part of the ongoing investigation, toxicology samples were obtained from both drivers and will be submitted for analysis.

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 a crash.