Gonzales Man Killed in Three Vehicle Ascension Parish Crash

Gonzales Man Killed in Three Vehicle Ascension Parish Crash

Prairieville – Earlier this afternoon, Troopers with Louisiana State Police Troop A began investigating a three vehicle fatality crash on US 61 just north of LA 427, which occurred at approximately 2:50 pm. The crash took the life of 22-year-old Eber Rivas of Gonzales.

The initial investigation by Troopers revealed that the crash occurred as Rivas was driving a 2008 Jeep Wrangler northbound on US 61 near LA 427. At the same time, the driver of a 2003 Chevrolet Trailblazer was traveling southbound on US 61 in the same area. For reasons still under investigation, the Trailblazer left the roadway to the right while in a left hand curve. The Trailblazer then re-entered the roadway and struck Rivas’ vehicle head on. A third vehicle traveling behind Rivas in the same direction struck his vehicle in the rear during the crash. Despite being properly restrained, Rivas sustained severe injuries of which he succumbed to on the scene where he was pronounced deceased. The driver of the Trailblazer was not restrained and was ejected from the vehicle. She was transported to a local hospital where she is being treated for severe injuries. The driver of the third vehicle was properly restrained and suffered minor injuries. Impairment is not suspected to be a factor in this crash but standard toxicology results are pending. This crash is an active and ongoing investigation and no further information is available at this time.

Troopers would like to remind motorists of the importance of safe decisions behind the wheel. Please take a moment to speak with your loved ones about the importance of their safe decisions while operating a motor vehicle crash. Remind them to always wear a seatbelt, never drive impaired, and to avoid distractions. Also remind them about the dangers of driving in inclement weather. The conversation you have today could be the difference tomorrow.

Contact Information:
TFC Taylor J. Scrantz
Louisiana State Police
Public Affairs Section
Office: (225) 754-8524
taylor.scrantz@la.gov