Wrong Way Driver Causes Multi-Vehicle Crash on I-10 in Calcasieu Parish

Vinton – On April 12, 2022, shortly before 10:00 p.m., Louisiana State Police Troop D responded to a multi-vehicle crash on Interstate 10 about 2 miles east of the Texas state line in Calcasieu Parish. The crash claimed the life of 25-year-old Claudia Williams of Orange, Texas.

The preliminary investigation revealed a 2016 Chevrolet Equinox, driven by Williams, was traveling west in the eastbound lanes of travel on I-10 at a high rate of speed. At the same time, the driver of a 2022 Nissan Frontier was traveling east on I-10. The driver of the Nissan took evasive actions to avoid the crash, but struck the trailer of an unidentified 18-wheeler that was traveling east. After the impact with the 18-wheeler, the Nissan was sideswiped by the Chevrolet. The Chevrolet continued traveling west and struck a 2022 Kenworth 18-wheeler head-on.

Williams, who was unrestrained, sustained fatal injuries as a result of the crash and was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the Nissan and the driver 18-wheeler, who were both properly restrained, sustained minor injuries and were transported to area hospitals for treatment. Toxicology samples were obtained and will be submitted for analysis. This crash remains under investigation.

Louisiana State Troopers would like to take this opportunity to remind motorists to always make good decisions while operating motor vehicles. Never drive while impaired, fatigued, or distracted, always ensure every occupant is properly restrained, and follow all traffic laws. While not all crashes are survivable, taking simple precautions such as these can often mean the difference between life and death.
Troop D has investigated 4 fatal crashes resulting in 5 deaths in 2022.

Contact Information:TFC Derek Senegal
Louisiana State Police
Public Affairs Section
Office: (337) 491-2466
[email protected]