Published: 04-26-2026 | Category: Troop I
Church Point – On April 24, 2026, at 5:00 p.m., Louisiana State Police Troop I began investigating a multi-vehicle fatal crash on Louisiana Highway 35 near Louisiana Highway 358 in St. Landry Parish. The crash ultimately claimed the life of 18-year-old Marlee Norse of Opelousas.
The preliminary investigation revealed that a 2006 Ford Focus was stopped on LA Hwy 358. At the same time, a 2007 Chevrolet 2500 pickup was traveling south on LA Hwy 35, while a 2002 Toyota Tundra was stopped on LA Hwy 35 attempting to make a left turn onto LA Hwy 358. For reasons still under investigation, the Ford failed to yield to the Chevrolet and entered the intersection, striking the Chevrolet. Following the initial impact, the Ford traveled off the roadway and into a ditch, while the Chevrolet continued forward and struck the Toyota.
Norse, who was unrestrained, sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased on scene. The driver and passengers of the Ford sustained major injuries and were transported to a local hospital. The driver and passengers of the Chevrolet were properly restrained and reported no injuries. The driver and passengers of the Toyota sustained minor injuries and were transported to a local hospital. Routine toxicology samples were collected from the driver and submitted for analysis.
While not all crashes are survivable, statistics show that properly wearing your seat belt will dramatically reduce your chances of being severely injured or killed in a crash. Louisiana law requires that every person in a vehicle, regardless of seating position, always remain buckled up. Properly wearing your seat belt is one of the most effective ways to save your life and reduce injuries during crashes.
Contact Information:
Trooper Monique Lavergne
Louisiana State Police
Public Affairs Section – Troop I
Office: (337) 262- 5880
[email protected]