Ascension Parish, Louisiana – In Ascension Parish, Louisiana, on the evening of October 24, 2023, a tragic incident occurred on Interstate 10 that resulted in the loss of a young life. Troopers from Louisiana State Police Troop A commenced an investigation into a severe two-vehicle collision that took place shortly after 11:30 p.m. The crash occurred on the eastbound lanes of Interstate 10, east of US 61.

Preliminary findings from the investigation indicate that a 34-year-old individual named Joshuah Cannon, hailing from Nederland, Texas, was traveling west in the eastbound lanes of Interstate 10. Cannon was operating a 2010 Chevrolet Traverse at the time of the incident. Simultaneously, 23-year-old Jaranisha Carter, a resident of Prairieville, Louisiana was traveling eastbound on Interstate 10 in a 2008 Honda Accord.

Tragically, the Chevrolet continued traveling in the opposite direction and collided head-on with the Honda.

Carter, who was not wearing a seatbelt, sustained severe injuries as a result of the crash. She was immediately transported to a local hospital, where she was later pronounced deceased.

Cannon, too, was unrestrained during the collision and suffered moderate injuries. He was also taken to a local hospital for treatment.

During the on-scene investigation, Troopers observed several indications of impairment in Cannon’s behavior. Consequently, he was taken into custody and will face several charges, including Vehicular Homicide, Reckless Operation, Driving While Intoxicated (3rd offense), Driving on Divided Highways, and Failure to Wear a Seatbelt. Once discharged from the hospital, Cannon will be booked into the Ascension Parish Jail to await trial.

To aid in the investigation, samples for toxicology analysis were collected from both drivers.

This tragic incident serves as yet another reminder of the countless preventable motor vehicle crashes witnessed by Troopers. Impairment and the failure to wear seatbelts remain significant contributing factors to fatal crashes throughout Louisiana. Impaired drivers account for almost half of all fatal crashes in the state of Louisiana. In light of this, Louisiana State Police strongly urge motorists to plan ahead and designate a sober driver when necessary. It is crucial to avoid driving under the influence or getting into a vehicle with an impaired driver. Additionally, always remember to buckle up for your safety.

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.