Motorcyclist in Louisiana Killed in Two Vehicle Crash on LA 70 in Assumption Parish

Assumption Parish, Louisiana – A motorcyclist in Louisiana was killed in a two-vehicle crash on LA 70 in Assumption Parish.

On May 29, 2023, Louisiana State Police (LSP) reported that Troop C was notified of a two-vehicle serious injury crash on Louisiana Highway 70 at the intersection with Verret Street on May 28, shortly after 8:00 p.m. Shari Akins, 44, of Greenwell Springs, Louisiana, died as a result of the crash.

According to LSP, the preliminary investigation found that Craig Aucoin, 34, of Pierre Part, was driving north on Verret Street in a 2019 Nissan Altima. At the same time, Akins was riding a 2005 Honda motorcycle east on LA Highway 70, nearing the crossroads of Verret Street. According to police,  Aucoin failed to yield to the approaching motorcycle from a stop sign for unknown reasons and pulled into its path, causing the vehicles to collide.

Akins, who was wearing a DOT-approved helmet, was thrown from her motorcycle and suffered serious injuries. She was taken to a hospital in the Baton Rouge region, where she died. Aucoin was restrained appropriately and sustained no injuries.

Aucoin was confirmed not to be intoxicated and freely consented to a breath test, which revealed no alcohol. A standard toxicological sample was taken from Akins and sent for testing.

Aucoin was cited for failing to yield at a stop sign and driving while his license was suspended. This crash is still being investigated.

May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month. Always be cautious and look twice before making any maneuver, like changing lanes, turning, or entering an intersection. Motorcycles are smaller and easier to overlook, so take your time scanning your surroundings. A moment of foresight can save a life and help to make the road safer for everyone.

So far in 2023, Troop C has investigated 9 fatal crashes, resulting in 11 fatalities.

All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty.