One Driver Killed in Two-Vehicle Crash in Iberia Parish
Iberia Parish – Shortly before 4:30 p.m. on August 12, 2022, Louisiana State Police Troop I began investigating a two-vehicle crash on Louisiana Highway 85 near Louisiana Highway 673 in Iberia Parish. The crash claimed the life of 24-year-old Mariah A. Francis of Jeanerette.
The preliminary investigation revealed Francis was driving a 2011 Cadillac SRX south on LA 85. At the same time, a 2014 Case farm tractor was being driven north on LA 85. Francis failed to negotiate a curve and her Cadillac crossed the center line striking the farm tractor near the center of the northbound lane.
Despite being properly restrained, Francis suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene by the Iberia Parish Coroner’s Office. Three passengers in Francis’ Cadillac were transported to a local hospital with minor to moderate injuries. The driver of the tractor reported no injuries and refused treatment on the scene.
Impairment on the part of both drivers is unknown at this time but toxicology results have been submitted to the Louisiana State Police Crime Lab for analysis. This crash remains under investigation.
Troop I has investigated 29 fatal crashes resulting in 32 deaths since the beginning of 2022.
Contact Information:
TFC Thomas Gossen
Louisiana State Police
Troop I Public Affairs
