Several Injured; Passenger Killed in Multi-Vehicle Crash in Livingston Parish

Livingston – On January 1, 2024, shortly after 5:00 p.m., Troopers with Louisiana State Police Troop A began investigating a multi-vehicle crash on Interstate 12 near LA 441 in Livingston Parish. The crash ultimately claimed the life of 44-year-old April Schaff of Baton Rouge.

The initial investigation revealed that 24-year-old Ashley Arnone of Independence, LA was driving a 2021 Hyundai Palisade headed west on Interstate 12. At the same time, a 2023 Volkswagen Atlas was slowing to stop in the left lane behind a 2023 RAM that was stopped due to a prior crash. For reasons still being investigated, Arnone continued traveling west and struck the Atlas in the rear. The impact caused the Atlas to strike the RAM and exit the roadway into the median. The Palisade then struck the RAM in the rear. Moments later, a 2017 Honda Accord traveling behind the Palisade, maneuvered through the crash scene and impacted both the Palisade and Atlas.

Arnone was properly restrained at the time of the crash and was transported to a local hospital with minor injuries. The driver and rear passengers of the Atlas were restrained and were transported to a local hospital with moderate injuries from the crash. The front passenger of the Atlas was also properly restrained; however, she succumbed to her injuries in the crash and was pronounced deceased at the scene. The driver of the RAM was transported to a local hospital with minor injuries. The driver of the Accord did not sustain any injuries in the crash. Impairment is not suspected on the part of Arnone; however a standard toxicology sample was collected. Arnone was subsequently arrested and booked into the Livingston Parish Detention Center for the following charges: Negligent Homicide, Reckless Operation, and Negligent Injuring (4 counts). 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. 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