Driver Ultimately Killed in Head-On Crash in Lafayette Parish
Lafayette Parish – Shortly before 8:30 a.m. on March 20, 2023, Louisiana State Police Troop I began investigating a two-vehicle crash on the Northwest Frontage road near Gatehouse drive in Lafayette Parish. The crash claimed the life of 59-year-old Maria B. Felton of Carencro.
The preliminary investigation revealed a 2018 Nissan Titan pickup, driven by Branden Lundy of Morgan City, was traveling south on the NW Frontage road. At the same time, a 2015 Infiniti QX60, driven by Felton, was traveling north on the NW Frontage road. For reasons still under investigation, Lundy’s pickup crossed the center line and struck the Infiniti head-on in the northbound lane.
Troopers determined Felton was restrained at the time of the crash. She was transported to a local hospital in critical condition where she ultimately succumbed to her injuries. Lundy and his passenger were both restrained and suffered moderate injuries.
Impairment, on the part of both drivers, is unknown at this time and blood samples have been submitted for analysis. This crash remains under investigation and charges are pending.
Troopers would like to take this opportunity to remind motorists to always make good decisions while operating motor vehicles. Never drive while impaired, fatigued, or distracted, always ensure every occupant is properly restrained, and follow all traffic laws. While not all crashes are survivable, taking simple precautions such as these can often mean the difference between life and death.
Troop I has investigated 15 fatal crashes resulting in 17 deaths since the beginning of 2023.
Contact Information:
TFC Thomas Gossen
Louisiana State Police
Troop I Public Affairs
