Louisiana Driver Succumbs to Injuries Sustained in Head-On Crash on LA 70, Authorities Indicate Charges Are Pending
St. Martin Parish, Louisiana – A Louisiana driver has succumbed to injuries sustained in a head-on crash on LA 70. Authorities have indicated that charges are pending.
On April 19, 2023, Louisiana State Police (LSP) reported that Troop I was notified of a two-vehicle crash on Louisiana Highway 70 at Stephensville Road in St. Martin Parish soon before 5:00 p.m. on April 10, 2023. Nelson Cheramie, 79, of Berwick, Louisiana, died as a result of the crash.
Cheramie was driving a 2014 Lexus E350 southbound on Louisiana Hwy 70, according to a preliminary inquiry. Around the same time, Terrance Brown, 23, of Plaquemine, Louisiana was driving north on LA 70 in a 2007 Honda Accord. The Accord collided with the Lexus in the southbound lane of LA 70 for unknown reasons.
Cheramie was properly restrained, but sustained serious injuries and was taken to a nearby hospital in critical condition. Brown was also restrained and sent to a nearby hospital with moderate injuries. LSP indicated that it is unknown if impairment was a factor, but standard toxicological samples were acquired from both drivers and sent to the LPS Crime Lab for analysis. Authorities also indicated that the crash is still being investigated, and charges are pending.
Cheramie ultimately died as a result of injuries on April 17, 2023, according to Troop I.
While the exact reason for this incident is still being investigated, distracted driving is a major cause of many avoidable crashes. State Police warn all drivers to be cautious when driving. Never text and drive (including using social media, reading/sending email, or watching videos), and always have a designated driver if you have consumed anything that makes you feel different. Making wise decisions when driving, such as ensuring all occupants are securely restrained and avoiding driving while inebriated or distracted, can frequently mean the difference between life and death.
Since the beginning of 2023, Troop I has investigated 17 fatal crashes resulting in 19 deaths.