GROSSE TETE, La. – A Rosedale, La. man has died as a result of a crash with a semi-truck.
The crash occurred shortly before 11:30 a.m. on Thursday, according to a release from the Louisiana State Police (LSP).
Troopers began investigating a two-vehicle fatal crash on Highway 77 south of Interstate 10 in Iberville Parish that claimed the life of 22-year-old Collin Smith of Rosedale.
LSP says its preliminary investigation revealed that a 2013 Buick Enclave, driven by Smith, was traveling south on Highway 77. At the same time, a 2008 Kenworth tractor-trailer was traveling north on Highway 77.
LSP is investigating why Smith crossed the centerline into the northbound lane and struck the tractor-trailer head-on.
Police say after initial impact, both vehicles traveled off the roadway into the tree line and caught fire.
Smith sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased on the scene. The driver of the tractor-trailer sustained moderate injuries and was transported to a local hospital for treatment.
Due to the extent of the fire damage, restraint usage could not be determined for either driver.
Impairment is unknown; however, routine toxicology samples will be obtained and submitted for analysis.
The crash remains under investigation.
Bruce Guthrie is an award-winning journalist who has lived in three states including Arkansas, Missouri and Georgia. During his nearly 20-year career, Bruce has served as managing editor and sports editor for numerous publications. He and his wife, Dana, who is also a journalist, are based in Carrollton, Georgia.
