Two-Vehicle Collision on US 90 Results in Death of Louisiana Woman and The Arrest of an Impaired Driver

Gretna, Louisiana – A two-vehicle collision in Gretna, Louisiana on December 15 resulted in the death of Tricia Cook, 67, and the arrest of Gerald McKnight, 40, on charges of vehicular homicide, DWI, and reckless driving. McKnight allegedly exhibited signs of impairment and provided a breath sample with a blood alcohol concentration above the legal limit. The driver of the other vehicle sustained moderate injuries and was hospitalized.

On December 16, 2022, Louisiana State Police reported that on December 15, just before midnight, Troopers from LSP Troop B responded to a two-vehicle collision on US 90B upper level near Lafayette Street in Gretna. Tricia Cook, 67, from Gretna, Louisiana, perished as a result of this accident.

Gerald McKnight, 40, of Gretna, was driving a 2017 Acura MDX westbound on US 90B upper level near Lafayette Street, according to the preliminary investigation. In front of the Acura at the same moment was a 2008 Ford Crown Victoria taxi. As the Ford slowed due to traffic congestion, the Acura struck the rear of the Ford for circumstances that are still under investigation.

Cook, who was unrestrained in the back seat of the Ford, suffered devastating injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the Ford was properly restrained, sustained moderate injuries, and was transferred to a local hospital for treatment. McKnight was likewise restrained appropriately and was unharmed in the collision.

McKnight exhibited indicators of impairment during the on-scene inquiry and supplied a breath sample that indicated a Blood Alcohol Concentration above the legal limit. McKnight was arrested and brought into the Jefferson Parish Correctional Center on the counts of Vehicular Homicide, DWI (First Offense), and Reckless Driving. The inquiry into this crash continues.

Troopers wish to remind motorists of the significance of making safe decisions behind the wheel. Alcohol, prescription medicines, and other substances have numerous impacts on the body that impair driving abilities. These substances can impair vision, distort the perception of time and space, impair the fine motor skills required to operate a motor vehicle, and reduce reaction time. If you feel differently, you drive differently. Drivers are advised to prepare ahead and choose a sober driver. Failure to do so can have fatal results. Although not all incidents are survivable, wearing a seatbelt significantly reduces the likelihood of being killed or badly injured in a collision.

An arrest is an indication that probable cause exists to believe the subject was involved in the offense alleged. A person is innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.