Driver Dies In Fiery St. Landry Parish Crash

A fiery crash took the life of a person just after midnight Monday, May 3.

Louisiana State Police Troop I Spokesman Trooper Thomas Gossen says that the driver of the Dodge Charger lost control of the vehicle on Louisiana Highway 182.

The reason why the person lost control of the vehicle, is not known. Troopers are continuing to investigate. The crash happened on 182 near Judson Walsh in St. Landry Parish.

When the vehicle ran off of the roadway, it ended up hitting a tree where it burst into flames.

The driver was still inside when the vehicle caught fire. Because of the nature of the circumstances surrounding the crash, officials at this time say that they are unable to identify the person inside the vehicle. The St. Landry Parish Coroner's Office pronounced the person dead at the scene.

Gossen says they do not know at this time whether or not impairment was a factor in the crash. Nor do they know whether or not the person was wearing a seat belt. Because of the condition of the body, they were not able to get a sample for a routine toxicology test.

So far this year, twenty-eight people have died in twenty-two crashes in the Acadiana region of Louisiana State Police Troop I.

Trooper Gossen reminds all drivers and passengers that, in the state of Louisiana, seatbelts are required to be worn at all times. In addition, he reminds everyone to always work to prevent distracted driving.