Unrestrained Passenger Ejected and Killed in Single-Vehicle Crash

TROOP F NEWS RELEASE

September 29, 2023

Ouachita Parish – On Thursday, September 28, 2023, shortly before midnight, Troopers with Louisiana State Police Troop F began investigating a single-vehicle fatal crash on I-20 near the Cheniere Drew Exit. The crash claimed the life of 64-year-old Jeranbttai Patel.

The preliminary investigation revealed that a 2022 Toyota Highlander was traveling east on I-20, in the right lane. For reasons still under investigation, the Toyota traveled off the right side of the road and overturned, causing Patel to be ejected.

Patel, who was unrestrained, sustained life-threatening injuries and was transported to an area hospital for treatment. Shortly after, Troop F was notified that Patel succumbed to his injuries. The driver, who was also unrestrained and ejected, suffered moderate injuries. He was transported to an area hospital for treatment. Speed is a suspected factor in this crash. Routine toxicology samples were collected and will be submitted for analysis. This crash remains under investigation.

Louisiana State Police would like to remind motorists to slow down, buckle up, and lessen the distractions in the vehicle. Crash forces do not care who you are or what you drive. The faster you drive, the greater the risk of serious injury or death; not wearing a seat belt dramatically increases that risk.

In 2023, Troop F has investigated 30 fatal crashes, resulting in 36 deaths.

Contact Information:

TFC Ryan Davis

Louisiana State Police

Public Affairs Section

Office: (318) 345-2810

ryan.davis@la.gov