Slidell, Louisiana - A tragic two-vehicle crash on Interstate 10 near Gause Blvd. in St. Tammany Parish early this morning claimed the life of 37-year-old Brittany Rawson of Elberta, Alabama. According to the Louisiana State Police, the incident occurred shortly before 1:00 a.m. when a 2014 BMW X1, driven by 42-year-old Andre Fontana of Mobile, Alabama, struck the rear of a 2008 Freightliner tractor-trailer.

Preliminary investigations revealed that both vehicles were traveling eastbound on Interstate 10 when the crash occurred. For reasons still under investigation, the BMW struck the rear of the Freightliner's trailer. Rawson, who was not properly restrained at the time of the crash, was transported to a local hospital where she ultimately succumbed to her injuries. Fontana, also not properly restrained, sustained serious injuries and was taken to a local hospital for treatment.

In contrast, the driver of the Freightliner was properly restrained and escaped the incident without injury. Routine toxicology samples were obtained from Fontana and the driver of the Freightliner for analysis.

The Louisiana State Police emphasized that this incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of seat belt safety. According to statistics, properly wearing a seat belt can dramatically reduce the risk of injury or death in a crash. Louisiana law requires that every person in a vehicle, regardless of seating position, always remain buckled up.

This investigation is ongoing, and charges are pending. The Louisiana State Police urge all motorists to take heed of this tragic incident and prioritize their safety on the roads by wearing their seat belts at all times.

All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty.