Published: 12-20-2025 | Category: Troop L
Lacombe – On December 19, 2025, at approximately 11:40 p.m., Troopers with Louisiana State Police Troop L responded to a two-vehicle fatality crash on Interstate 12 west of LA Hwy 434 in St. Tammany Parish. The crash claimed the life of a passenger whose identity is being withheld pending notification of next of kin.
The preliminary investigation revealed that a 2018 Ford Transit van was traveling westbound on Interstate 12 in the right lane behind a 2015 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter van. For reasons still under investigation, the Ford struck the rear of the Mercedes-Benz. As a result of the impact, the vehicles became entangled, exited the roadway to the right, and struck a tree.
Both drivers were unrestrained at the time of the crash. A passenger in the Mercedes-Benz, who was unrestrained, sustained serious injuries and died on scene. The driver of the Mercedes-Benz sustained moderate injuries and was transported to a local hospital for treatment. The driver of the Ford sustained minor injuries and was issued citations for Following Too Closely and additional traffic-related violations. As part of the ongoing investigation, routine toxicology samples were obtained from both drivers 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 potential additional charges.
Troopers want to remind the public that although not all crashes are survivable, wearing your seatbelt drastically decreases your chance of injury or death during a crash. It is crucial to remember that speeding decreases reaction time, increases stopping distance, heightens the risk of losing control of your vehicle, and reduces the effectiveness of safety devices in the event of a crash. Taking simple precautions, such as wearing a seatbelt, following all traffic laws, and adhering to speed limits, increases safety on the road.
Contact Information:
Trooper Marc Gremillion
Louisiana State Police
Public Affairs Section – Troop L
Phone: (985) 302-9272
[email protected]