Ascension Parish, Louisiana - Just before 11:00 p.m. on December 19, 2023, Louisiana State Police Troop A initiated an investigation into a collision involving two vehicles on LA 44 north of LA 22 in Ascension Parish. Tragically, three individuals lost their lives in the crash. Their identities are being withheld until their next of kin have been notified.
The initial findings indicate that Jaylynn Burbank, aged 28 and from Gonzales, Louisiana, was driving a 2023 Ram 1500 southbound on LA 44 behind a Jeep Cherokee. For reasons that are still being looked into, the Ram collided with the rear of the Jeep, causing it to veer off the road to the right, hit a telephone pole, and then catch fire. Burbank sustained minor injuries and was taken to a local hospital; Burbank was wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash.
Unfortunately, due to the severity of the damage sustained by the Jeep, all its occupants perished; it's not known whether they were wearing seatbelts.
Upon investigation, Burbank displayed signs of impairment and was subsequently charged with Vehicular Homicide (3 counts), Reckless Operation, and DWI (1st offense). He has been booked at Ascension Parish Jail on these charges while awaiting toxicology results. The incident is still under investigation.
An arrest is an indication that probable cause exists to believe the subject was involved in the offense alleged. All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty.