Denham Springs, Louisiana – Troopers from Louisiana State Police Troop A initiated an investigation into a multi-vehicle collision that occurred on October 22, 2023, shortly before 4:00 a.m. This unfortunate incident took place on Interstate 12 eastbound, specifically west of Range Avenue in Livingston Parish. Tragically, the crash resulted in the untimely demise of a 24-year-old Micah Williams, from Baton Rouge, Louisiana.
According to the preliminary investigation, it was determined that a 2018 Toyota Avalon, driven by 25-year-old Prestin Pleasant from Baton Rouge, was traveling eastward on Interstate 12. For reasons that are presently being investigated, the Toyota came to a stop in the left lane of the roadway for an extended period. Subsequently, a 2008 Nissan Versa, also headed eastbound in the left lane, swerved to the left to avoid colliding with the Toyota. Unfortunately, the Nissan struck a guardrail and reentered the roadway. In the midst of this event, a 2007 Ford Edge, also traveling eastbound in the left lane, collided with the rear end of the stationary Toyota. As a result, additional collisions occurred following the Nissan’s reentry onto the roadway.
Pleasant, the driver of the Toyota, sustained moderate injuries in the crash and was promptly transported to a local hospital for medical treatment. Tragically, Micah Williams suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene. The other drivers involved in the collision were also taken to local hospitals, but their injuries were deemed minor in nature.
LSP indicated that during the course of the investigation, Prestin Pleasant exhibited signs of impairment, leading to his subsequent arrest. He was booked into the Livingston Parish Detention Center, facing charges that include DWI (1st offense), Vehicular Homicide, Aggravated Obstruction of a Highway, Vehicular Negligent Injuring (2 counts), and Driving Under Suspension.
At this time, it is unknown whether seatbelts were in use during the crash. It is crucial to note that this incident is still under investigation, and further details may emerge in due course.
It is imperative to address the recurring causes of fatal crashes, namely speeding, impairment, and failure to utilize seatbelts. Louisiana State Police Troopers strongly urge the public to establish a plan to avoid driving while impaired. Speeding significantly diminishes a driver’s ability to maneuver safely around curves or obstacles on the roadway, extends the required stopping distance for a vehicle, and increases the distance traveled while the driver reacts to a particular situation. It is important for motorists to prioritize making responsible decisions while operating a vehicle.
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.