Two Church Point men died this morning after a crash on U.S. 190, state police say.
Ray Duplechin, 78, and Paul Young, 64, died at the scene of the 9 a.m. crash, troopers say.
The crash happened at the intersection of U.S. 190 and La. 752 in St. Landry Parish.
Troopers say their preliminary investigation revealed a 2006 Chevrolet S10 pickup truck, driven by Duplechin, entered the intersection in an attempt to cross over the eastbound lanes of travel of US 190 from Belleau Road onto LA 752.
As the Chevrolet entered the intersection, it was struck by an eastbound 2004 Ford pickup truck. After the impact, both vehicles ran off the right side of the roadway before coming to rest.
Duplechin, who was properly restrained, and his unrestrained passenger, Young, suffered fatal injuries as a result of the crash and were pronounced dead on scene. The driver of the Ford was properly restrained and was not injured.
Impairment is unknown as a factor at this time and toxicology reports are pending. The crash remains under investigation.
Louisiana State Troopers would like to take this opportunity to remind motorists to always make good decisions while operating motor vehicles. Never drive while impaired, fatigued, or distracted, and follow all traffic laws. Louisiana state law requires vehicle occupants to be properly restrained in all seating positions, day or night. Statistics show the chances of surviving a crash rise significantly when properly restrained but the decision not to wear a seat belt can have deadly consequences. Motorists are encouraged to make the smart choice and to always wear a seat belt.
Troop I has investigated 41 fatal crashes resulting in 45 deaths since the beginning of 2020.
