Unrestrained Louisiana Driver Dies After Vehicle Strikes Tree and Becomes Submerged off LA 182

By Calcasieu Staff

Published July 06, 2025

Terrebonne Parish, Louisiana - On July 4, 2025, just before 8:00 p.m., Louisiana State Police Troop C initiated an investigation into a single-vehicle serious injury crash on Louisiana Highway 182, approximately two miles west of Savanne Road in Calcasieu Parish. The incident involved a 2014 Ford F-150 driven by 76-year-old James McCleary of Morgan City, who ultimately succumbed to his injuries.

According to preliminary findings, McCleary was traveling westbound on LA 182 when his vehicle departed the roadway on the right side. The truck struck a tree and became partially submerged in a nearby waterway. McCleary, who was not wearing a seatbelt at the time, sustained serious injuries and was transported to a local hospital, where he later died from those injuries.

Standard toxicology samples were collected from McCleary to assist investigators in determining whether impairment or other factors contributed to the crash. The Louisiana State Police continue to investigate the incident to establish the full circumstances surrounding the crash.

Authorities encourage all motorists to use seatbelts consistently and exercise caution to prevent similar incidents.

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