A Louisiana woman was killed in a crash on US 90B after a vehicle crashed into a concrete barrier in Orleans Parish.

Shortly after 3:30 p.m. on July 29, 2023, Louisiana State Police from Troop B were called to a single-vehicle collision on the entry ramp from Convention Center Boulevard to the US 90B West HOV lane. The crash tragically resulted in the death of 75-year-old Yvette Bowens from New Orleans, Louisiana.

Preliminary inquiries indicated that Spurgeon Lewis, a 74-year-old man from New Orleans, was behind the wheel of a 2009 Honda Accord on the access ramp to the US 90B west HOV lane. The reasons are not yet clear, but the car reportedly veered off the road and hit a concrete barrier.

Bowens, who was the occupant of the front seat, incurred serious life-endangering injuries and was taken to a nearby hospital, where she subsequently passed away. Whether Bowens was wearing seat belts during the incident is yet to be confirmed by LSP. Lewis, who was wearing a seat belt when the crash occurred, sustained moderate injuries and had also been taken to a local medical facility. Whether Lewis was under the influence at the time of the crash is unclear and the results of the routine drug tests are still awaited.

LSP urges drivers to always prioritize safety when driving. Although not every accident can be survived, the likelihood of death or severe injury is significantly lessened with the use of seatbelts. It's critical to eliminate distractions that may divert a driver’s attention from the road. By being prepared and making smart choices, one can potentially avert disaster and ensure a safer future.