Louisiana Driver Arrested Suspected of Impairment in Crash on LA 22 that Killed Passenger

Louisiana – Louisiana State Police reported on November 19, 2022, that on November 18, soon before 6:30 p.m., Troopers from LSP Troop L began investigating a two-vehicle crash on LA Hwy 22 near Helen Drive in St. Tammany Parish. Petrina Lae, 51, of Covington, Louisiana, was killed in the collision.

The incident reportedly occurred as a 2019 Jeep Cherokee driven by 35-year-old Roy Keys III of Covington was going westbound on LA Hwy 22. A 2018 International tow truck was traveling eastbound on LA Hwy 22 at the same moment. According to preliminary investigations, Keys III crossed the centerline into the opposite lane, causing the Jeep to collide with the front of the International.

Lae was sitting in the Jeep’s front right passenger seat. Despite being securely restrained, she died as a result of the crash and was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the International was securely restrained and was not injured. The International’s driver was not suspected of being intoxicated and freely agreed to a chemical breath test, which revealed no alcohol. It is uncertain whether Keys III was restrained at this time. Keys III was unharmed.

Police indicated that Keys III’s impairment is suspected to have played a role in the crash. Keys III was arrested and booked at the St. Tammany Parish Jail for violating L.R.S. 14:32. L.R.S. 14:98, Vehicular Homicide. 2nd Offense DWI, L.R.S. 14:98. 8 Operating a vehicle while under suspension for certain prior offenses, and L.R.S. 32:71 Driving Left of Center. Keys III provided a regular toxicological sample, which was then sent for analysis. This crash is still being investigated.

Louisiana State Police indicated that too frequently, Troopers witness the sad effects of avoidable motor vehicle accidents. Troopers advise motorists to plan ahead of time before consuming alcohol since it can impair vision, impair fine motor skills, and affect reaction times. Please never drive or travel with an inebriated driver, and always use a seat belt.

An arrest is an indication that probable cause exists to believe the subject was involved in the offense alleged. A person is innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.