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Unrestrained Passenger Killed, Drivers Injured After Two-Vehicle Crash in St. John the Baptist Parish

Published: 12-07-2024 | Category: Troop B


Laplace – On Friday, December 6, 2024, around 9:00 pm, Troopers with Louisiana State Police Troop B began investigating a two-vehicle crash on I-10 near milepost 211 on the Bonnet Carré Spillway bridge in St. John the Baptist Parish. The crash ultimately claimed the life of 22-year-old Curtis Collins of Baton Rouge.  

The preliminary investigation revealed that for unknown reasons, a 2012 Mazda 6 was stopped in the left lane on I-10 East near milepost 211 with its lights on. At the same time, a 2017 Nissan Sentra was traveling east on I-10, approaching the Mazda. For reasons still under investigation, the Nissan struck the rear of the Mazda, causing the Mazda to strike its driver, who was standing outside of the vehicle by the front bumper. The impact caused the driver to travel over the guardrail into the marsh below.

Collins, who was seated in the front passenger seat of the Mazda, was not wearing a seatbelt and died on scene. The driver of the Mazda was rescued from the marsh by St. John The Baptist Parish Fire Department, sustained minor injuries, and was transported to a local hospital for treatment. The driver of the Nissan, who was properly restrained, suffered minor injuries and was transported to a local hospital for treatment. Impairment is unknown; routine toxicology samples were obtained from both drivers for analysis. This crash remains under investigation. 

Troopers want to remind motorists to move disabled vehicles off the roadway whenever possible. Avoid exiting your vehicle, and buckle up when inside the vehicle. For assistance, call 911 or *LSP (*577) to reach the nearest Troop. Additionally, motorists should stay alert when approaching disabled vehicles or pedestrians on the roadway and avoid distractions. When approaching a disabled vehicle, remember the “Move Over Law,” which requires you to move over a lane, if safely able, or slow to a safe speed while passing others.  

Contact Information:
Trooper First Class Jacob Pucheu 
Louisiana State Police
Public Affairs Section – Troop B
Office: (504) 471-2775
Jacob.pucheu@la.gov