Iberia Parish, Louisiana - In a span of just over 24 hours, Louisiana State Police Troop I investigated two separate fatal crashes involving pedestrians, claiming the lives of two individuals.
The first incident occurred on July 13, 2024, at approximately 10:00 p.m. on Louisiana Highway 83, south of Louisiana Highway 14. Francis Firmin, a 75-year-old resident of New Iberia, Louisiana was attempting to recover his vehicle, which was stuck in the east ditch. While setting triangular traffic cones in the southbound lane, Firmin was struck by a 2002 Ford Mustang traveling south on LA-14.
Firmin sustained severe injuries and was transported to a nearby hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries. The driver of the Ford was properly restrained and did not suffer any injuries. Although impairment is not suspected to be a factor, standard toxicology samples were collected from all parties involved and are being analyzed.
The second incident occurred on July 14, 2024, at around 6:00 a.m. on Louisiana Highway 90 near Ebenezer Road in Rayne, Louisiana. Ryan Trahan, a 41-year-old resident of Rayne, was walking east in the westbound lane of Highway 90, wearing a black t-shirt and blue jeans, when he was struck by an unknown vehicle traveling west. The vehicle failed to stop and continued west, leaving Trahan with fatal injuries. He was pronounced deceased at the scene.
The investigation into both crashes is ongoing, with Troop I working to identify the vehicle involved in the hit-and-run crash. Anyone with information regarding the incident is urged to contact Louisiana State Police Troop I at (337) 262-5800.
These tragic incidents highlight the importance of pedestrian safety when walking near and crossing roadways. Pedestrians can minimize the risk of crashes by walking against the flow of traffic, allowing them to anticipate approaching vehicles more effectively. Additionally, wearing brightly colored attire or reflective accessories during darker hours can significantly enhance visibility for drivers.
So far in 2024, Troop I has investigated 20 fatal crashes, resulting in 21 fatalities.