Louisiana Teens Killed in Single Vehicle Crash After Vehicle Left Roadway and Became Submerged

Louisiana – On June 19, 2022, Louisiana State Police reported that Troopers with LSP Troop A began investigating a single vehicle crash on LA 427 near Bayou Manchac in Ascension Parish shortly after 12:00 p.m. Caroline Smith, 16, and Chloe Hamilton, 16, both from Prairieville, Louisiana were killed in the crash. Smith was driving a 2008 Chevrolet Impala on LA 427, according to the preliminary investigation. Smith failed to negotiate a right curve, exited the roadway to the right, entered through a gravel shoulder, and struck a tree for unknown reasons. Following the collision with the tree, the vehicle vaulted into a private pond and became completely submerged.

Both Smith and Hamilton were pronounced dead at the scene. It’s unclear whether seatbelt use played a role in the crash. This crash is still being investigated.

LSP shared that the difficult task of death notification is still one of the most difficult aspects of the Law Enforcement profession. When the outcome is avoidable, notification becomes even more difficult.

Louisiana State Police urges drivers to please take a moment to prioritize their own and their loved ones’ safety. Aside from making sound decisions behind the wheel, inform your family and friends about the dangers of impaired driving. Remind them that wearing a seatbelt reduces their chances of being killed or seriously injured in an accident. Inform them of the dangers of distracted driving. Conversations you have today could have a huge impact on your life tomorrow.