From LSP – On January 16, 2021, shortly after 8:00 a.m., Troopers from Louisiana State Police Troop D responded to a two-vehicle crash on Interstate 10 about 3 ½ miles west of LA Hwy 1256 in Calcasieu Parish. The crash claimed the life of 32-year-old Danielle Elyce Batchelder of Sulphur.

 

The preliminary investigation revealed a 2006 Chrysler 300, driven by 37-year-old Craig Adam Gaddy of Jacksonville, NC, was traveling west on I-10. For reasons still under investigation, Gaddy struck the rear of a 2017 Toyota Corolla that was traveling west ahead of him. After the impact, the Toyota ran off the right side of the roadway, entered a ditch, struck an embankment, and overturned before coming to rest in a tree line. Gaddy was able to come to a controlled stop on the inside shoulder of the roadway.

The driver and both passengers in the Toyota were all properly restrained and sustained moderate to severe injuries. All occupants were transported to an area hospital where Batchelder, the front seat passenger, succumbed to her injuries. Gaddy was properly restrained and not injured. Toxicology samples were obtained from Gaddy and the driver of the Toyota and submitted for analysis. This crash remains under investigation.

 

Louisiana State Troopers would like to take this opportunity to remind motorists to always make good decisions while operating motor vehicles. Never drive while impaired, fatigued, or distracted, always ensure every occupant is properly restrained, and follow all traffic laws. While not all crashes are survivable, taking simple precautions such as these can often mean the difference between life and death.

Troop D has investigated 1 fatal crash resulting in 1 death in 2021.

 

Contact Information:

TFC Derek Senegal

Louisiana State Police

Public Affairs Section

Office: (337) 491-2519