Impaired Driver Arrested in Fatal Plaquemines Parish Crash

TROOP B NEWS RELEASE

November 19, 2023

Plaquemines Parish - Shortly after 4:50 a.m. on November 19, 2023, Troopers from Louisiana State Police Troop B began investigating a two-vehicle fatal crash on LA 23 near Captain Larry Lane in Plaquemines Parish. The crash claimed the life of 32-year-old Michael Carr of Baytown, TX.

The initial investigation revealed that 48-year-old Peter Thomason of Devine, TX was driving a 2015 Jeep Cherokee south on LA 23 near Captain Larry Lane. At the same time, Carr was driving a 2016 Toyota Scion south on LA 23 directly in front of the Jeep. For reasons still under investigation, Thomason began to transition into the left lane but returned to the right lane and impacted the rear of the Toyota. The impact caused the Toyota to travel off the roadway and impact the concrete base of a utility pole.

Despite being properly restrained, Carr suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced dead on the scene. The passenger in the Toyota suffered minor injuries and was transported to an area hospital. During the on-scene investigation, Thomason displayed signs of impairment and provided a breath sample which indicated Blood Alcohol Concentration over the legal limit. Thomason was arrested and booked into the Plaquemines Parish jail on the following charges: Vehicular homicide, Vehicular negligent injuring, and Reckless operation.

Far too often, Troopers see the tragic consequences of preventable motor crashes. Troopers urge motorists to have a plan in place before consuming alcohol as it can impair visual ability, diminish fine motor skills, and decrease reaction times. Please choose never to drive impaired or ride with an impaired driver, and always buckle up. The conversation you have could make all the difference.

Contact Information

Trooper First Class Zavier Martin

Louisiana State Police

Public Affairs Section - Troop B

Office: (504) 471-2775

Zavier.martin@la.gov