New Orleans, Louisiana – A devastating multi-vehicle crash on the Crescent City Connection bridge in Louisiana claimed the life of 48-year-old Mark Deane of Gretna, Louisiana on August 23, 2024. According to the Louisiana State Police Troop B, the incident occurred just after 7:30 a.m. when Deane’s 2021 Yamaha motorcycle was struck from behind by a 2000 Toyota Camry driven by 29-year-old Alberto Martinez-Sanchez, also of Gretna.
The preliminary investigation revealed that Deane was traveling eastbound on the bridge when Martinez-Sanchez’s vehicle struck the rear of the motorcycle, causing Deane and the Yamaha to become airborne. The Toyota then collided with the rear of a 2023 Nissan Rogue. Deane, who was wearing a DOT-approved helmet, was pronounced dead at the scene.
Martinez-Sanchez was properly restrained and did not suffer any injuries in the crash. The driver of the Nissan was also properly restrained and uninjured. While impairment is not suspected, standard toxicology samples were submitted for analysis.
As a result of the investigation, Martinez-Sanchez was arrested and booked into the Orleans Parish Lockup on charges of Negligent Homicide and other traffic-related offenses.
The Louisiana State Police Troop B would like to remind motorists to always make safe and responsible decisions when driving. This includes avoiding impaired, fatigued, or distracted driving, following traffic laws, and ensuring that all occupants are properly restrained. By taking these simple precautions, drivers can significantly reduce the risk of fatal crashes.