*UPDATE* Vehicular Homicide Arrest Made in Double Fatality Crash in St. Bernard Parish

Published: 05-15-2024 | Category: Troop B


Chalmette – Troopers have continued to investigate the crash that claimed the lives of 38-year-old Brandon Harvey and 37-year-old Crystal Williamson in Chalmette. As part of the ongoing investigation, it was determined that 23-year-old Haziel Valle was impaired at the time of the crash. On May 8, 2024, Troopers with the Louisiana State Police Troop B obtained an arrest warrant for Vehicular Homicide, DWI 1st Offense, and other traffic related charges, through the 34th Judicial District Court, for Valle.

 

On May 15, 2024, after being discharged from the hospital, Valle was booked into the St. Bernard Parish Jail for the outstanding warrant. This crash remains under investigation. 

 

TROOP B ORIGINAL NEWS RELEASE 

May 5, 2024 

 

Chalmette – On Sunday, May 5, 2024, shortly after 2:00 am, Troopers with Louisiana State Police Troop B were notified of a two-vehicle crash on LA 46 at Jacob Drive. The crash claimed the lives of 38-year-old Brandon Harvey and his passenger, 37-year-old Crystal Williamson of Chalmette.  

 

The preliminary investigation revealed that Harvey was driving a 2015 Acura TLX east on LA 46, near Jacob Drive. At the same time, a 2012 GMC Terrain, driven by 23-year-old Haziel Valle of Silverhill, Alabama, was traveling west on LA 46 at Jacob Drive. For reasons still under investigation, the GMC crossed the center turn lane and entered the path of the Acura. As a result, the GMC struck the Acura head-on.   

 

Harvey and Williamson both suffered fatal injuries and died on scene. Valle was transported to a local hospital with serious injuries. Seatbelt use and impairment is unknown at this time; however, toxicology samples were obtained and submitted for analysis. This crash remains under investigation. 

  

While not all crashes are survivable, using seat belts correctly can significantly increase the likelihood of survival and reduce the severity of injuries. Taking a moment to ensure that you and your passengers are properly buckled up before hitting the road can greatly improve your chances of arriving safely at your destination. Additionally, the consumption of alcohol and other drugs can impair your vision, coordination, and reaction times while driving. It is crucial for drivers to have a plan for a safe ride home before indulging in any substances, as impaired judgment can lead to dangerous driving behavior. Remember, if you feel different, you will drive differently. Stay safe on the road by making responsible choices. 

 

Contact Information: 

TFC Jacob Pucheu  

Louisiana State Police 

Public Affairs Section 

Office: (504) 471-2775 

[email protected]