New Iberia, Louisiana - At just past 10:00 a.m. on February 26, 2024, Louisiana State Police Troop I received a report of a single-vehicle crash on Louisiana Highway 31 close to Greenbriar Street. Sadly, the crash resulted in the death of Leroy Lewis, a 73-year-old resident of New Iberia, Louisiana.

According to the State Police's preliminary investigation, the crash involving Lewis happened while he was driving a 2006 Chevrolet Silverado heading south on LA 31. The Silverado veered off the road for unknown reasons and ended up in a ditch, where it hit a tree.

Even though Lewis was restrained, he sustained injuries that led to his death. The Iberia Parish Coroner's Office declared him dead at the location.

Louisiana State Police indicated that it is unknown if intoxication played a role in the crash, and a sample for toxicology analysis was collected. The investigation into this crash is ongoing.

So far in 2024, Troop I has investigated 5 fatal crashes that led to the deaths of 5 individuals.