Unrestrained Louisiana Man Dies in Single-Vehicle Crash on LA 356 After Colliding with a Gate and Tree

Louisiana – Louisiana State Police reported on October 21, 2022, that around 10:30 p.m. on October 20, 2022, Troopers from LSP Troop I were alerted of a single-vehicle crash on Louisiana Highway 356 near Bearb Road in St. Landry Parish. Wilfredo A. Cruz, 45, of Duson, Louisiana, was killed in the crash.

The incident occurred while Cruz was driving a 2000 Acura Integra south on Bearb Road, based on the initial investigation by State Police. Cruz failed to stop at the stop sign at the intersection of LA 356 for unknown reasons and crossed both lanes of traffic. Following that, the Acura collided with a pipe gate before crashing into a tree.
Cruz was not restrained correctly at the time of the accident. He was sent to a local hospital in critical condition. Cruz died from his injuries on October 21, 2022, according to Troopers. A toxicological sample was acquired for study, and the crash is still being investigated.

Louisiana State Troopers would want to use this occasion to remind motorists that the difference between good and fatal outcomes on Louisiana highways starts and ends with wise decisions. The most effective smart decisions begin with an “always” mindset: always designate a sober driver, always focus on the task of driving, and always wear a seat belt regardless of seating position. While not all car accidents are avoidable, simple precautions like these can frequently mean the difference between life and death.

Troop I has investigated 42 fatal crashes resulting in 47 deaths so far in 2022.