Head-On Crash Leaves Two Drivers Deceased in East Baton Rouge Parish

Baton Rouge – On September 16, 2023, shortly before 6:00 p.m., Troopers with Louisiana State Police Troop A began investigating a two-vehicle crash on LA 30, south of LA 1248 (Bluebonnet Blvd.) in East Baton Rouge Parish. The crash ultimately claimed the lives of 34-year-old Stefan Valentine of Baton Rouge and 45-year-old Claudette Holmes of Carville.

The initial investigation revealed that Valentine was driving a 2004 Toyota 4-Runner headed south on LA 30. At the same time, a 2018 Mazda CX5, driven by Holmes, was traveling north on LA 30. For reasons still being investigated, Valentine crossed over into the northbound lane and struck the Mazda head-on.

Valentine was unrestrained at the time of the crash and succumbed to his injuries at the scene. Despite being restrained, Holmes also succumbed to her injuries in the crash. The passenger of the Mazda was restrained and was transported to a local hospital with moderate injuries. A standard toxicology sample was collected from both drivers and will be submitted for scientific analysis. This crash remains under investigation.

Troopers wish to remind motorists to always make good decisions while in a motor vehicle. Never drive impaired, fatigued or distracted, follow all traffic laws and always ensure every occupant is properly restrained. Louisiana law requires that every person in a vehicle, regardless of seating position, always remain buckled up. While not all crashes are survivable, taking simple precautions such as these can often mean the difference between life and death.

Contact Information:

TPR Christian Reed

Louisiana State Police – Troop A

Public Affairs Section

Office: (225) 754-8524

Christian.Reed2@la.gov