Motorcyclist in Louisiana Killed in Early Morning Crash on LA 437, Other Driver Arrested For Suspected impairment
St. Tammany Parish, Louisiana – A motorcyclist in Louisiana was killed in an early morning crash on LA 437, and the other driver was arrested on suspicion of being impaired.
On May 14, 2023, the Louisiana State Police (LSP) stated that Troopers from LSP Troop L began investigating a fatal crash on LA Highway 437 near North Fitzmorris Road in St. Tammany Parish shortly before 1:00 a.m. Marlin Swaggerty, 34, of Covington, Louisiana, was killed in the crash.
According to Louisiana State Police, the crash occurred as a 2008 Chevrolet Silverado driven by 54-year-old Warren Barringer of Hammond, Louisiana was traveling northbound on LA Highway 437. At the same time, Swaggerty was riding his motorcycle south on LA Highway 437. The Chevrolet began to turn left into North Fitzmorris Road for unknown reasons and collided with the front of the motorcycle. Following the collision, both vehicles exited the road.
Despite wearing a DOT-approved helmet, Swaggerty died as a result of the crash. He was pronounced dead at the scene. Barringer was restrained appropriately and was unharmed. LSP indicated that during the crash investigation, Barringer gave a breath sample that was above the legal limit for alcohol.
Troopers arrested Barringer and booked him into the St. Tammany Parish Jail for violating Louisiana Revised Statute 14:32 (Negligent homicide), and Louisiana Revised Statute 14:98, Operating a vehicle while intoxicated, 1 DWI (1st Offense), as well as L.R.S. 32:122 Failing to Yield While Turning Left. Swaggerty provided a regular toxicological sample, which was then sent for analysis. This crash is still being investigated.
LSP indicated that too frequently, Troopers witness the sad effects of avoidable motor vehicle crashes. Troopers advise motorists to plan ahead of time before ingesting alcohol since it can impair vision, impair fine motor skills, and affect reaction times. Please never drive or travel with an inebriated driver, and always use a seat belt. Your discussion could make all the difference.
An arrest is an indication that probable cause exists to believe the subject was involved in the offense alleged. All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty.