Published: 08-19-2026 | Category: Fatal Crash
TROOP D NEWS RELEASE
August 19, 2026
Lake Charles Man Killed in Three-Vehicle Calcasieu Parish Crash
Lake Charles – On August 18, 2026, shortly after 11:00 a.m., Troopers with Louisiana State Police Troop D responded to a three-vehicle crash on Louisiana Highway 397 near Joe Spears Road. The crash claimed the life of 33-year-old Jeffery Chretien of Lake Charles.
The preliminary investigation revealed that a 2009 International dump truck was traveling north on LA Hwy 397 and slowed as it approached a railroad crossing. At the same time, a 2008 Lincoln Mark LT, driven by Chretien, was traveling north behind the International. For reasons still under investigation, the Lincoln entered the southbound lane in a designated no-passing zone while attempting to pass the International. As the Lincoln began returning to the northbound lane, it struck the rear of the International and traveled into the southbound lane, where it was struck head-on by a southbound Western Star dump truck.
Chretien, whose restraint use is unknown due to the severity of the crash, sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene. The drivers of both dump trucks were properly restrained and reported minor injuries. Impairment is not suspected; however, routine toxicology samples were obtained and submitted for analysis. This crash remains under investigation.
Passing in designated no-passing zones significantly increases the risk of serious and fatal crashes by limiting visibility and reducing the time available to react to oncoming traffic. Louisiana State Police urges all motorists to obey roadway markings, remain patient, and only pass when it is legal and safe to do so.
Contact Information:
Trooper Roy Jones
Louisiana State Police
Public Affairs Section – Troop D
Office: (337) 491-2511