Lafayette Woman Killed in Two-Vehicle Crash in Ascension Parish

TROOP A NEWS RELEASE
July 18, 2024

Gonzales – Shortly after 12:00 p.m. on July 17, 2024, Troopers with Louisiana State Police Troop A responded to a two-vehicle crash on LA 74 at Chester Diez Road in Ascension Parish. The crash ultimately claimed the life of 90-year-old Jean Ducote of Lafayette.

The preliminary investigation revealed that a 2012 Mazda 6 was traveling eastbound on LA 74 approaching Chester Diez Road. At the same time, a 2014 Ford Escape was traveling eastbound on LA 74 directly behind the Mazda. For reasons still under investigation, as the Mazda was attempting to make a right turn onto Chester Diez Road, the Ford failed to brake, and collided with the rear of the Mazda. As a result of the impact, the Mazda traveled off the roadway and entered a ditch.

Ducote, who was a rear seat passenger in the Mazda, was properly restrained at the time of the crash, suffered serious injuries and was transported to a nearby hospital. On July 18th, 2024, Ducote succumbed to her injuries at the hospital. The driver and an additional passenger of the Mazda were both properly restrained at the time of the crash, sustained serious injuries and were transported to a nearby hospital.

The driver of the Ford, who was restrained at the time of the crash, sustained moderate injuries and was transported to a local hospital. Impairment is not suspected, however, standard toxicology samples from both drivers will be submitted for analysis. This crash remains under investigation. Any criminal or traffic violations discovered in the ongoing investigation will be forwarded to the Ascension Parish District Attorney’s Office.

Troopers wish to remind motorists to always make good decisions while in a motor vehicle. Never drive impaired, fatigued, or distracted; follow all traffic laws, and always ensure every occupant is properly restrained. While not all crashes are survivable, taking simple precautions such as these can often mean the difference between life and death.

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