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Unrestrained Louisiana Passenger Killed in Early Morning Crash on LA 1, Impairment Suspected

Louisiana – Louisiana State Police reported that on June 27, 2022, shortly before 2:00 a.m., LSP Troop C was notified of a two-vehicle serious injury crash on Louisiana Highway 1 about 6 miles north of Louisiana Highway 3090. Timothy Stevens, 31, of Larose, Louisiana, died as a result of the crash. According to preliminary findings, Zackery Santiny of Larose was driving a 2009 Pontiac G6 north on LA Hwy 1. A 2012 Freightliner 18-wheeler was traveling south on LA Hwy 1 at the same time. Santiny crossed the center line into the southbound lane for unknown reasons. The Freightliner driver attempted to avoid a collision by steering to the right, but was hit by the Pontiac.

Santiny and his front passenger, Stevens, were both unrestrained at the time of the accident, sustained serious injuries, and were taken to a hospital in the New Orleans area for treatment. Stevens died as a result of his injuries while in the hospital. The driver of the Freightliner was also unrestrained and suffered minor injuries.

Santiny is suspected of being impaired, and a toxicology sample was collected for testing. The driver of the Freightliner was not suspected of being intoxicated and provided a valid breath sample that revealed no alcohol was present. This crash is still being investigated.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 10,000 people are killed in impaired-driving-related crashes each year. Alcohol and other drugs have an impact on your vision, fine motor skills, and reaction times. Before consuming any alcohol or drugs, drivers should make a plan for a safe ride home. Furthermore, statistics show that taking just 3 seconds before a trip to buckle up significantly reduces your chances of being injured or killed in a traffic accident. Always ensure that each occupant is properly restrained and has their own seat belt. Every trip. Each and every time.

So far in 2022, Troop C has investigated 25 fatal crashes that resulted in 29 deaths.

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