St. Martinville Man Dies in Single-Vehicle Crash in St. Martin Parish

St. Martin Parish – Shortly after 12:00 a.m. on December 24, 2022, Troopers from Louisiana State Police Troop I were notified of a single-vehicle crash on Louisiana Highway 347 north of the city limits of St. Martinville in St. Martin Parish. The crash took the life of 34-year-old John Thomas Hayes of St. Martinville. 

The initial investigation by State Police revealed that the crash occurred as Hayes was driving a 2020 Chevrolet pickup south on LA 347. For reasons still under investigation, the vehicle ran off the roadway to the left, struck a tree, and became engulfed in flames. 

Hayes, whose seat belt usage is unknown, was pronounced dead at the scene by the St. Martin Parish Coroner’s Office. A toxicology sample was obtained for analysis and this crash remains under investigation. 

Louisiana State Troopers would like to take this opportunity to remind motorists to always make good decisions while operating motor vehicles. Never drive while impaired, fatigued, or distracted, always ensure every occupant is properly restrained, and follow all traffic laws. While not all crashes are survivable, taking simple precautions such as these can often mean the difference between life and death.

Troop I has investigated 59 fatal crashes resulting in 66 deaths in 2022.

TFC Thomas Gossen               

Louisiana State Police
 Troop I Public Affairs  

Office: (337) 262-5880           
 thomas.gossen@la.gov