Toddler Killed in Morning Two-Vehicle Crash on I-12 in Louisiana

Louisiana – Louisiana State Police reported on September 16, 2022, that on September 14, 2022, soon after 7:15 a.m., Troopers from LSP Troop L began investigating a two-vehicle crash on Interstate 12 near Pumpkin Center Road in Tangipahoa Parish. Benjamin DeLaune, 1, of Livingston, Louisiana, was killed in the crash.

The incident occurred when a 2006 GMC Sierra driven by 28-year-old George Johnson of Kentwood, Louisiana was traveling eastbound on Interstate 12 in the left lane. Simultaneously, a 2019 Hyundai Elantra was driving east on Interstate 12 immediately in front of the GMC. The GMC collided with the rear of the Hyundai for unknown reasons.

Despite being securely restrained in a rear-facing child seat, Benjamin DeLaune suffered catastrophic injuries as a result of the incident. He was taken to a nearby hospital, where he died from his injuries on September 15th. He was a passenger in the Hyundai. The Hyundai driver was securely restrained and had very minor injuries. The driver was taken to a nearby hospital. Johnson was restrained appropriately and only suffered minor injuries.

Toxicology samples were acquired from both drivers for processing as part of the continuing inquiry. This crash is still being investigated, and Troopers will forward their findings to the Tangipahoa Parish District Attorney’s office for a consultation on criminal and/or traffic infractions until the investigation is completed.

Troopers want to urge drivers to always make wise decisions when driving. Never drive while inebriated, fatigued, or distracted, and always obey all traffic rules. While not all car accidents are avoidable, simple precautions like these can frequently mean the difference between life and death. Please educate your loved ones on the necessity of making safe driving decisions.

Please visit Troop L if you have any questions concerning your child’s seat or simply want to ensure that your seat is properly installed. Troop L is a Child Seat Fitting Station that is nationally recognized. No appointment is necessary to see a certified car seat technician at 2600 North Causeway Blvd. in Mandeville on Tuesdays from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.