Two Drivers Killed in East Baton Rouge Parish Crash

Published: 10-27-2020 | Category: Troop A

Zachary – Shortly after 6:30 pm on October 26, 2020, Troopers from Louisiana State Police Troop A began investigating a two vehicle fatal crash on US Hwy 61 south of LA Hwy 964 in East Baton Rouge Parish. The crash took the lives of 17-year-old Stanlasija Brue and 22-year-old Thaddeus Johnson, both of New Roads.

The initial investigation revealed an on-duty New Roads Police Officer observed a stolen 2010 Chevrolet Camaro traveling within the city limits of New Roads. The officer attempted to conduct a traffic stop; however, Brue who was later identified as the driver of the Camaro refused to stop and pursuit ensued. As the pursuit continued east, the Pointe Coupee Parish Sheriff’s Office entered the pursuit to provide assistance to the New Roads Police Department. Brue ultimately began traveling southbound on US Hwy 61. At the same time, Johnson was traveling northbound on US Hwy 61 in a 2000 Ford Mustang. For reasons still under investigation, the Chevrolet ran off the roadway to the left and crossed the median. After crossing the median, the Chevrolet entered the northbound lane of US Hwy 61 and struck the Ford head-on.

Both Brue and Johnson were unrestrained at the time of the crash and sustained fatal injuries. They were pronounced deceased on the scene. The three passengers in the Chevrolet were also unrestrained at the time of the crash and sustained serious injuries. They were transported to a local hospital for treatment. As part of the ongoing investigation, toxicology samples were obtained from both drivers for analysis.

Louisiana State Troopers wish to remind motorists that all occupants in a vehicle must be restrained, regardless of seating position. While not all crashes are survivable, statistics show that the chances of surviving a crash rise significantly when properly restrained. Making good choices while in motor vehicles such as never driving while impaired and always ensuring every occupant is properly restrained can often mean the difference between life and death.

Contact Information:
TFC Taylor J. Scrantz
Louisiana State Police
Public Affairs Section
Office: (225) 754-8524
taylor.scrantz@la.gov