Driver and Passenger Killed in Head-On Crash in St. John the Baptist Parish

Published: 11-07-2026 | Category: Fatal Crash


Mount Airy – On November 6, 2026, shortly before 12:00 p.m., Troopers with Louisiana State Police Troop B began investigating a two-vehicle fatal crash on LA Highway 44 (River Road) near Marigold Street in St. John the Baptist Parish. The crash claimed the lives of two 75-year-old women, one from Vacherie and the other from Garyville. 

The preliminary investigation revealed that a 2011 Toyota Corolla was traveling westbound on LA 44. At the same time, a 2023 Freightliner box truck was traveling east on LA 44 approaching Marigold Street. For reasons still under investigation, the Corolla crossed the centerline into the eastbound lane and struck the box truck head-on.  

Both occupants in the Corolla were properly restrained, sustained fatal injuries, and were pronounced deceased at the scene. The driver of the box truck, who was restrained, sustained minor injuries and was transported to a local hospital for treatment. 

Driver impairment is not believed to be a factor in the crash; however, as part of the ongoing investigation, routine toxicology samples were collected for analysis. This crash remains under investigation.

While the cause of this crash remains under investigation, Troopers remind motorists of the importance of making responsible decisions when operating a motor vehicle. Never drive impaired, fatigued, or distracted. While not all crashes are survivable, taking simple precautions like these can often mean the difference between life and death. 

Contact Information: 
Trooper Kyle Wagner 
Louisiana State Police 
Public Affairs Section – Troop B 
(504) 202-6900 
[email protected]