A single car crash on LA Highway 182 (west) near Laperouse Road in Iberia Parish has taken the life of 46 year old Tracy Chatman of New Iberia, LA.
An initial investigation by State Police has revealed that 19 year old Ailayjah Derouen of New Iberia, was operating a 2001 Buick Lesabre eastbound on LA 182, crossed into the westbound lane, and ran off of the left side of the roadway.
Police say after leaving the roadway, the vehicle struck several trees and overturned. The single vehicle crash happened shortly after 2:00 a.m. Sunday.
None of the three occupants inside of the vehicle were wearing seat belts.
The driver, Derouen and a rear passenger, 20 year old Kyle Derouen, of New Iberia sustained moderate injuries and were transported to a local hospital for treatment.
Police say the deceased, Tracy Chatman, was ejected from the vehicle and pronounced dead on scene by the Iberia Parish Coroner’s Office.
Troopers say they suspect impairment to be a factor in the crash and a toxicology sample was taken from the driver and will be submitted to the Louisiana State Police Crime Lab for analysis.
AFter being treated and released into the custody of Troopers, Derouen was transported to the Iberia Parish jail and booked on the following charges: Negligent Homicide, First Degree Vehicular Negligent Injuring, No Seat Belt, No Driver’s License and Careless Operation.
This crash remains under investigation.
