Driver Arrested in Fatal Crash in St. John the Baptist Parish

Laplace – Shortly after 10:00 a.m. on August 12, 2024, Troopers with Louisiana State Police Troop B responded to a two-vehicle crash on Interstate 55, two miles south of Ruddock in St. John the Baptist Parish. The crash claimed the life of 37-year-old Erica Sagona of Metairie.

The preliminary investigation revealed that a 2006 Ford Escape, driven by Sagona, was disabled on the right shoulder of Interstate 55, two miles south of Ruddock. At the same time, a 2004 Ford F-150, driven by 35-year-old Cory Conrad of Magnolia, Mississippi, was traveling south on Interstate 55 in the right lane. For reasons still under investigation, Conrad traveled onto the right shoulder to pass a vehicle directly in front of him and impacted the rear of the Ford Escape. Sagona, who was inside of her vehicle, was pronounced dead at the scene. Conrad was not restrained and sustained minor injuries.

As a result of the investigation, Conrad was arrested and booked into the St. John the Baptist Parish Correctional Center for Reckless Driving and Negligent Homicide. Impairment is not suspected, however, standard toxicology samples will be taken and submitted for analysis. This crash remains under investigation.

Speeding and aggressive driving continue to be leading causes of fatal crashes. Speeding reduces a driver’s ability to steer safely around curves or objects in the roadway, extends the distance necessary to stop a vehicle, and increases the distance a vehicle travels while the driver reacts to a situation. Troopers want to remind motorists of the importance of safe decisions behind the wheel. Motorists who observe reckless driving or criminal activity are encouraged to dial 911 or *LSP (*577) to connect with the nearest Louisiana State Police Troop.

Contact Information:
Trooper Shelby Mayfield
Louisiana State Police
Public Affairs Section
Phone: (225) 921-1384
[email protected]