Lafayette Parish, Louisiana - At around 1:00 a.m. on December 25, 2023, the Louisiana State Police Troop I received a report about a collision involving three vehicles on Interstate 49 northbound near Mile Post 6 in Lafayette Parish. The crash resulted in the death of Tevin Ford, aged 30, and from Bunkie, Louisiana.

Initial investigations indicated that the crash occurred when Tevin Ford, driving a 2021 Chevrolet Corvette at high speed, collided with the rear of a Volvo 18-wheeler sugar cane hauler also traveling north on I-49. Subsequently, a northbound 2021 Nissan Versa struck the disabled Corvette in the roadway.

Ford, who was not wearing a seatbelt, was thrown from the Corvette and pronounced dead at the scene by the Lafayette Parish Coroner's Office. His passenger was taken to a local hospital with severe injuries. The driver of the 18-wheeler sustained minor injuries while no injuries were reported by the driver of the Versa.

Impairment is currently uncertain and samples for toxicology analysis were collected. This incident remains under investigation.

Louisiana State Police said that delivering news of someone's passing is always challenging; however, it becomes even more difficult when it could have been prevented. Holidays are meant for celebrating with loved ones and friends but unfortunately for some, this time will be forever linked to tragedy. It is crucial to never drive while impaired, fatigued, or distracted.

So far in 2023, LSP Troop I has investigated 55 fatal crashes resulting in 60 deaths.