New Iberia, Louisiana - Louisiana State Police are investigating a fatal two-vehicle crash on Louisiana Highway 674 that claimed the life of an 18-year-old Jeanerette resident late Tuesday night in Iberia Parish.

According to Louisiana State Police Troop I, the incident occurred shortly before midnight on January 28, 2026, on LA Highway 674 near Cherri Lane. Troopers responded to reports of a serious injury crash involving a 2013 Cadillac XTS and a 2015 Ford F-350.

Initial Findings From State Police

A preliminary investigation by Troop I indicates that the 2013 Cadillac XTS, driven by 18-year-old Jailon Rhine of Jeanerette, was traveling east on LA 674. At the same time, a 2015 Ford F-350 was headed west on the same roadway.

For reasons that remain under investigation, the Cadillac and the Ford collided head-on, causing major damage to both vehicles and serious injuries to both drivers. State Police have not yet released additional details on road or weather conditions, or any potential contributing factors such as speed or distraction.

Driver Killed, Second Driver Seriously Injured

Troopers reported that Rhine was properly restrained at the time of the crash. He sustained serious injuries and was transported to a nearby hospital, where he later died.

The driver of the Ford F-350, who was also properly restrained, suffered serious injuries and was taken to a nearby hospital for treatment. No update on that driver’s condition has been released, and Louisiana State Police have not identified the driver by name as of the latest information.

No other occupants were reported in either vehicle.

Toxicology Testing And Ongoing Investigation

In line with standard investigative procedure in fatal and serious-injury roadway incidents, troopers collected toxicology samples from both drivers. Those samples have been submitted to a crime laboratory for analysis. Results typically help investigators determine whether impairment played any role in the crash.