St. Rose, Louisiana – In St. Charles Parish, on February 12, 2024, just after 9:20 am, Troopers from Louisiana State Police Troop B started their investigation of a deadly crash that occurred on U.S.61 at I-310. Sadly, the crash resulted in the death of a 29-year-old individual named Kentrell Beard from Laplace, Louisiana.
According to the preliminary investigation, 42-year-old Keith Coleman from New Orleans was driving a 2008 Ford Escape heading south on US 61. Simultaneously, a 2019 Honda CRV was traveling north on the same road. For reasons still being investigated, Coleman lost control of his vehicle. As a result, the Ford crossed the median, entered the northbound lanes, and collided with the Honda.
Beard, who was riding in the Ford, sustained injuries that resulted in his death and he was declared dead at the crash site.
Louisiana State Police indicated that it is currently unclear whether Beard was restrained. Coleman, who was not wearing a seatbelt, was thrown out of the vehicle and suffered severe injuries. He was taken to a nearby hospital for medical assistance. The driver and passenger in the Honda had their seatbelts on, sustained minor injuries, and were also taken to a local hospital for treatment.
LSP said that it is uncertain if either of the drivers were impaired, and samples for toxicology analysis were collected. The investigation into this crash is still ongoing.
Louisiana State Troopers would like to emphasize to drivers that although not all crashes can be survived, the likelihood of surviving a crash greatly increases when passengers are wearing seatbelts. It is crucial to make responsible decisions while driving, such as never driving under the influence, ensuring everyone in the vehicle is wearing a seatbelt, and avoiding any distractions. These choices can have a profound impact on whether someone lives or dies in a vehicle crash.