Five-Year-Old Pedestrian Killed in Louisiana Crash On October 8

Louisiana – On October 8, 2022, shortly after 4:30 p.m., Louisiana State Police stated that LSP I was notified of a pedestrian-involved crash on the 900 block of Westend Drive in New Iberia. A 5-year-old female from New Iberia, Louisiana, was killed in the crash.

According to the preliminary investigation conducted by State Police, the juvenile was attempting to cross Westend Drive from the east side to the west side when she was struck by a northbound 2007 Chevrolet Tahoe. The front of the Tahoe collided with the child in the northbound lane, knocking the child over.

The juvenile was transported to an in-state hospital, where she died from her injuries. Although the driver is not suspected of being impaired, a standard toxicological sample was collected for processing. This crash is still being investigated.

The majority of pedestrian fatalities, approximately 70%, occur at night; nevertheless, drivers and pedestrians must remain attentive at all times, including during the day. Troopers advise pedestrians to keep a high level of vigilance when walking near the road. Parents should talk to their children about pedestrian safety on a regular basis so that they develop excellent safety habits. Simple precautions such as looking both ways before crossing the street, wearing reflective clothing, avoiding distractions, not walking too close to the road, and going against the flow of traffic could avert the majority of pedestrian-related crashes.

Troop I has investigated 40 fatal crashes resulting in 45 deaths in 2022.