**Update** Driver Identified in Fiery Crash in Calcasieu Parish

TROOP D NEWS RELEASE

December 28, 2023

The driver has been identified as 46-year-old Jessie Michael Richard of Lake Charles.

Original Release

Unidentified Driver Dies in Fiery Crash in Calcasieu Parish

Calcasieu Parish – On December 27, 2023, shortly after 7:15 p.m. Louisiana State Police Troop D began investigating a single-vehicle fatal crash on LA Hwy 14 approximately 2 ½ miles south of Hayes. The crash claimed the life of an unidentified driver.

The initial investigation revealed the driver of the pickup truck was traveling north on LA 14. For reasons unknown, the pickup truck crossed the centerline then traveled off the roadway. After leaving the roadway, the pickup truck became engulfed in flames.

The unidentified driver was unable to exit the vehicle and was pronounced dead at the scene. Positive identification for the driver is pending. A toxicology sample was obtained and will be submitted for analysis. This crash remains under investigation.

Troop D has investigated 35 fatal crashes resulting in 38 deaths in 2023.

Contact Information:

TFC Derek Senegal

Louisiana State Police

Public Affairs Section

Office: (337) 491-2513

derek.senegal@la.gov