A 38-year-old Church Point man died in a motorcycle crash last night, State Troopers say.
Michael Daigle died when he hit a truck that allegedly turned in front of him, troopers say. The crash happened on La. 98 near Mire, troopers say.
Holden Foti, 25, was booked with first-offense DWI, improper turn and negligent injury. Since Daigle has died from his injuries, Foti's negligent injury charge will be upgraded to vehicular homicide, troopers say.
The initial investigation by State Police revealed that the crash occurred as Daigle was riding a 2013 Honda motorcycle westbound on LA 98. At the same time, Foti was driving a pick-up truck eastbound on the highway turned in Daigle's path. The motorcycle hit the truck, troopers say.
Despite the fact that he was wearing a DOT approved safety helmet, Daigle received fatal injuries as a result of the crash and was later pronounced deceased at a local hospital.
Foti was properly restrained and was uninjured. Impairment is unknown on the part of Daigle but a routine toxicology sample was taken for analysis. Foti did provide a breath sample which indicated a BAC of 0.158g%.
Troopers say: Time and time again, Troopers witness preventable motor vehicle crashes. Impairment and lack of seat belt usage are primary causes of crashes across the state of Louisiana. Nearly half of the fatal crashes in Louisiana are caused by impaired drivers. Louisiana State Police urge motorists to have a plan in place that includes a designated driver. Please choose to not drive impaired or ride with an impaired driver, and always buckle up.
