Chalmette, Louisiana - A fatal crash occurred on LA 39 near Pelitere Drive in the early hours of Tuesday, July 16, 2024, claiming the life of 35-year-old Andrew Sartalamacchia of Folsom, Louisiana. According to the Louisiana State Police Troop B, the incident took place around 4:30 am, and an investigation is currently underway.
Preliminary findings indicate that Sartalamacchia was walking north on Pelitere Drive, wearing dark clothing, when he entered the southbound lanes of LA 39 from Pelitere Drive. At the same time, a 2014 Ford Pickup was traveling south on LA 39 in the left lane and struck Sartalamacchia. The pedestrian suffered severe injuries and was transported to a local hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries.
While impairment on the part of the Ford driver is not suspected, a voluntary blood sample was collected and will be submitted for analysis. The investigation is ongoing, and it is currently unknown whether Sartalamacchia was impaired at the time of the crash. Routine toxicology results are pending.
This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of pedestrian safety guidelines. Walking against the direction of traffic enables pedestrians to anticipate oncoming vehicles and react promptly. Additionally, wearing brightly colored clothing or using reflective accessories when walking in low-light conditions can significantly improve visibility for drivers. By following these practices, pedestrians can enhance their safety and minimize the chances of collisions.
The Louisiana State Police urge pedestrians to take necessary precautions when walking near roadways, especially during nighttime hours. By exercising caution and awareness, pedestrians can reduce their risk of being involved in a crash.