Driver Killed in Two-Vehicle Crash in Acadia Parish

Published: 10-19-2023 | Category: Troop I

TROOP I NEWS RELEASE

October 19, 2023

Driver Killed in Two-Vehicle Crash in Acadia Parish

Acadia Parish – At 5:00 p.m. on October 18, 2023, Louisiana State Police Troop I was notified of a two-vehicle crash on Louisiana Highway 13 near Ellis Road in Acadia Parish. The crash claimed the life of 75-year-old Michael Myers of Iota.                                                                  

The preliminary investigation revealed Myers was driving a 2009 Hyundai Sonata north on LA 13. At the same time, a 2023 Ram pickup, driven by Dwayne Thomas, was traveling north on LA 13 several vehicles behind Myers. As Myers began to turn left to enter Ellis Road, his Sonata was struck by Thomas, who was attempting to pass multiple northbound vehicles.  Upon doing so, both vehicles exited the roadway together and struck a utility pole.

Despite being properly restrained, Myers suffered fatal injuries. He was pronounced dead at the scene by the Acadia Parish Coroner’s Office. Thomas was properly restrained and was treated at the scene for minor injuries.

Impairment on the part of Myers is unknown at this time but toxicology results have been submitted to the Louisiana State Police Crime Lab for analysis. Thomas submitted a breath sample indicating no alcohol in his system and he displayed no signs of impairment. This crash remains under investigation and charges are pending.

Troop I has investigated 43 fatal crashes resulting in 48 deaths since the beginning of 2023.