Port Barre, Louisiana - On February 25, 2025, Louisiana State Police Troop I commenced an investigation into a fatal crash that occurred on US Highway 190 at the intersection with Louisiana Highway 743 at approximately 8 am. Tragically, the incident resulted in the death of an unborn child.

Preliminary findings from the investigation indicate that a 2022 Freightliner 18-wheeler, driven by 51-year-old Albert Jenkins of Lafayette, Louisiana was traveling southbound on LA Highway 743. Simultaneously, a 2024 KIA Seltos was heading west in the right lane of US Highway 190. For reasons that remain under investigation, the Freightliner failed to yield at a stop sign, turning left onto US Highway 190 and crossing into the path of the oncoming KIA. The collision occurred when the KIA struck the rear of the Freightliner's trailer.

The driver of the KIA, who was properly restrained and pregnant at the time of the crash, sustained critical injuries. After being transported to a local hospital for treatment, it was confirmed that the unborn child did not survive the injuries sustained in the incident. Jenkins, the driver of the Freightliner, was properly restrained and reported no injuries.

As part of the ongoing investigation, law enforcement obtained a toxicology sample from Jenkins, which has been submitted for analysis to determine if any substances may have played a role in the crash. The investigation remains active as authorities work to piece together the circumstances surrounding this tragic incident.

Motor vehicle crashes involving large trucks can be particularly hazardous due to their size and weight. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, collisions involving trucks often result in severe injuries or fatalities, especially when smaller vehicles are involved.

This incident highlights the importance of road safety and adherence to traffic regulations, especially at intersections where visibility may be limited.

All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty.