Gonzales, Louisiana - A two-vehicle crash on LA 74 in Ascension Parish on July 17, 2024, resulted in the tragic death of 90-year-old Jean Ducote of Lafayette, Louisiana. The incident occurred shortly after 12:00 p.m. when a 2012 Mazda 6 and a 2014 Ford Escape collided at the intersection of Chester Diez Road.

According to the preliminary investigation by Louisiana State Police Troop A, the Mazda was traveling eastbound on LA 74 and attempted to make a right turn onto Chester Diez Road. However, the Ford Escape, which was traveling directly behind the Mazda, failed to brake and struck the rear of the Mazda. The impact caused the Mazda to veer off the roadway and enter a ditch.

Ducote, who was a rear seat passenger in the Mazda, was properly restrained at the time of the crash but sustained serious injuries. She was transported to a nearby hospital, where she succumbed to her injuries on July 18, 2024. The driver and another passenger in the Mazda were also properly restrained and sustained serious injuries. They were transported to a nearby hospital for treatment.

The driver of the Ford Escape, who was restrained at the time of the crash, sustained moderate injuries and was transported to a local hospital. Authorities do not suspect impairment as a factor in the crash, but standard toxicology samples from both drivers will be submitted for analysis.

The investigation into the crash is ongoing, and any criminal or traffic violations discovered will be forwarded to the Ascension Parish District Attorney's Office. In the meantime, Louisiana State Police Troop A is reminding motorists to exercise caution and follow traffic laws to prevent such tragedies. By avoiding distracted, fatigued, or impaired driving, and ensuring all occupants are properly restrained, drivers can significantly reduce the risk of fatal crashes.

All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty.