Vermilion Parish, Louisiana - Just before 8:30 p.m. on December 31, 2023, Louisiana State Police Troop I received a report of a single-vehicle crash on Louisiana Highway 82 near Lulu Road in Vermilion Parish. The crash resulted in the death of Jakima Morrissey, a 40-year-old resident of Lafayette, Louisiana.
According to the initial investigation by State Police, the crash occurred when Morrissey was driving a 2023 Audi passenger car west on LA 82. The vehicle veered off the road to the right for reasons that are still being looked into and collided with a tree, catching fire.
Morrissey, who was not wearing a seatbelt, was thrown from the car and pronounced dead at the scene by the Vermilion Parish Coroner's Office. It is currently unknown whether impairment played a role in the crash; however, samples were taken for testing. The investigation into this incident is ongoing.
Louisiana State Police stated that reflecting on 2023, we remember the 62 individuals who lost their lives in motor vehicle crashes—62 individuals who had plans for tomorrow and whose families now grieve their absence. Delivering news of such tragedies to families is one of law enforcement's most challenging tasks. Unfortunately, most of these individuals were not wearing seatbelts and many were under the influence at the time of their crashes.
In 2024, authorities urge drivers and passengers not to become a statistic. Troopers want to emphasize the importance of making responsible decisions when driving. This means never operating a vehicle while impaired, fatigued, or distracted, and always ensuring that everyone in the vehicle is properly restrained. The Louisiana State Police wishes everyone a safe 2024.
In 2023, Troop I investigated 57 fatal crashes, which tragically resulted in 62 deaths.