Ascension Parish, Louisiana - A two-vehicle crash on US 61 in Ascension Parish has claimed the life of a 67-year-old woman from Gonzales, Louisiana according to the Louisiana State Police. The incident occurred on December 11, just before 2:00 p.m., at the intersection of LA 621.

According to the preliminary investigation, a 2013 Buick Enclave was traveling northbound on US 61 when it entered the left turning lane to turn onto LA 621. At the same time, a 2017 Toyota Camry was approaching the intersection from the opposite direction. For reasons still under investigation, the Buick failed to properly yield to oncoming traffic and traveled into the intersection. As a result, the Toyota collided with the passenger side of the Buick in the southbound lanes of US 61.

Juanita Holland, the front seat passenger of the Toyota, was not wearing a seatbelt and suffered severe injuries. She was transported to a local hospital where she succumbed to her injuries. The drivers of both vehicles were properly restrained and suffered moderate injuries. They were also transported to a local hospital for treatment.

The Louisiana State Police have said that impairment is no suspected as a factor in the crash. However, standard toxicology samples will be taken and submitted for analysis as part of the ongoing investigation.