Opelousas Man Killed in Two-Vehicle Crash in Ascension Parish

TROOP A NEWS RELEASE
July 22, 2024

Sorrento – Shortly after 6:00 a.m. on July 22, 2024, Troopers with Louisiana State Police Troop A responded to a two-vehicle crash on LA 70 at Panama Road in Ascension Parish. The crash ultimately claimed the life of 22-year-old Jayden Lazard of Opelousas.

The preliminary investigation revealed that a 1998 GMC pickup truck was traveling eastbound on LA 70. At the same time, a 1999 International tractor trailer was traveling westbound on LA 70. For reasons still under investigation, the GMC traveled across the center line into the westbound lane, and collided with the tractor trailer in a head-on manner. As a result of the impact, the GMC traveled off the roadway and entered a ditch.

Lazard, who was not restrained at the time of the crash, was partially ejected from the vehicle, suffered serious injuries and was transported to a local hospital where he ultimately succumbed to his injuries. The driver of the tractor trailer was properly restrained at the time of the crash and was not injured. This crash remains under investigation.

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]