Livingston Parish, Louisiana - On November 30, 2023, just before 9:30 a.m., Louisiana State Police Troop A initiated an inquiry into a single-vehicle crash on LA 42 east of LA 63 in Livingston Parish. The collision tragically resulted in the passing of Pedro Hernandez, aged 39 and from Gonzales, Louisiana.

Initial findings indicated that Hernandez was driving a 1998 Dodge Ram 1500 traveling east on LA 42. For reasons that are currently under investigation, Hernandez failed to navigate a left-hand curve, veered off the road, and collided with a tree. Despite being properly restrained, Hernandez sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene. The passenger, also properly restrained, was taken to a local hospital with severe injuries from the crash.

As part of the ongoing examination, samples for toxicology testing were obtained from Hernandez and will be sent for analysis.

Louisiana State Police indicated that while not all crashes can be survived, data shows that wearing a seatbelt correctly can significantly decrease the likelihood of being injured or killed in a crash. Louisiana law mandates that all occupants of a vehicle must always wear seat belts regardless of their seating position. Wearing your seat belt properly is one of the most effective ways to safeguard your life and reduce injuries in crashes.