Unrestrained Driver and Passenger Killed in Two-Vehicle Crash

West Baton Rouge Parish – On February 24, 2024, just before 5:30 am, Troopers with Louisiana State Police Troop A responded to a two-vehicle crash on US 190 at S. Winterville Road in Port Allen. The crash claimed the life of 35-year-old David Rideaux and 34-year-old Dwight Pelican Sr., both of Opelousas.

The preliminary investigation revealed that a 2018 Volvo concrete truck was traveling east on US 190 after turning from S. Winterville Road. At the same time, Rideaux was driving a 2012 Buick Lacrosse east on US 190, approaching the intersection of S. Winterville Road. For reasons still under investigation, the Buick impacted the rear of the Volvo.

Rideaux and the front seat passenger in the Buick, Pelican Sr., were unrestrained at the time of the crash. Both suffered fatal injuries and were pronounced dead at the scene. While impairment is unknown, standard toxicology samples were taken and will be submitted for analysis. This crash remains under investigation.

Troopers would like to remind motorists of the importance of safe decisions behind the wheel. While not all crashes are survivable, wearing a seatbelt greatly reduces the chances of being killed or seriously injured in a crash. Avoid distractions that take the driver’s focus away from the road. Having a plan and making safe decisions could be the difference for tomorrow.

Contact Information:
Sgt. Kate Stegall
Louisiana State Police
Public Affairs Section – Region 1
Office: 225-925-6202
Katharine.Stegall@la.gov
www.lsp.org