Pedestrian Killed in Secondary Crash in St. Tammany Parish

Slidell – On March 7, 2025, at approximately 8:20 a.m., Troopers with Louisiana State Police Troop L began investigating a serious injury crash involving a pedestrian on Interstate 59 near the Interstate 12 interchange in St. Tammany Parish. The crash ultimately claimed the life of 26-year-old Destiny Lacoste of Slidell.

The initial investigation revealed that two separate crashes occurred in the same general location along Interstate 59 northbound, only minutes apart. The first crash involved a 2019 Ford F-250, driven by 62-year-old Allen P. Martel of Eunice. The Ford was traveling northbound in the left lane. Simultaneously, a 2022 Kia Telluride, driven by Lacoste, was traveling northbound in the left lane behind the Ford. Preliminary findings indicate that the Ford slowed down and attempted to make an illegal left turn on the interstate crossover, resulting in the Kia colliding with the Ford. The Ford came to rest in the median, while the Kia came to rest in the left northbound lane.

Shortly after the initial crash and before emergency personnel arrived, Lacoste exited her vehicle. While she was outside her vehicle, a 2018 Ford F-250 traveling northbound in the left lane struck the stationary Kia, which then struck Lacoste.

Lacoste sustained serious injuries as a result of the second crash and was transported to a local hospital, where she succumbed to her injuries. A child passenger in the Kia was properly restrained in a child safety seat and sustained minor injuries. Martel was properly restrained and uninjured. The driver and passengers in the Ford F-250 involved in the second crash were all properly restrained and uninjured.

As part of the ongoing investigation, routine toxicology samples were obtained for analysis. This crash remains under investigation, and Troopers will forward their findings to the 22nd Judicial District Court District Attorney’s Office for consultation regarding any potential criminal and/or traffic violations pending the completion of the investigation.

Illegal turns on interstate crossovers pose a serious risk to all motorists. Louisiana law strictly prohibits vehicles from using interstate crossovers except for authorized emergency and law enforcement personnel. Attempting an illegal crossover maneuver can lead to severe crashes, injuries, and loss of life. The Louisiana State Police urge motorists to follow traffic laws, avoid driving while impaired, fatigued, or distracted, and always ensure all occupants are properly restrained. If you witness hazardous driving, dial *LSP (*577). Child safety seats provide crucial protection for children in crashes, but many are not installed correctly. If you’re unsure about your child’s seat or its installation, visit your nearest Louisiana State Police Troop or check the Louisiana Highway Safety Commission for the nearest fitting station. Ensuring proper use of car seats and booster seats helps save lives and prevent injuries.

Contact Information:
Trooper Marc Gremillion
Louisiana State Police
Public Affairs Section – Troop L
Phone: (985) 302-9272
[email protected]