70-year-old Phyllis Leblanc, 12 year old Jayla Daigle and 12 year old Trinity Schmidt, all of New Iberia have been identified as the fatalities.

The injured include two (12) year olds and 49 year old Steve Leblanc.  All are from New Iberia

A passenger train struck the car that was on the tracks Tuesday afternoon. The crash happened off La. Highway 88 near La. Highway 182 in Iberia Parish.

La. State Police Trooper Brooks David says there were six people total in the car. The three people who survived the crash - 49-year-old Steve Leblanc of New Iberia and two more minor children - sustained critical injuries and have been in the hospital.

Trooper David says the crossing did have active warning devices (flashing lights, gates, or bells). Toxicology samples have been obtained, though impairment is not a factor.

Louisiana state law requires motorists to yield the right of way to trains whether active warning devices are present or not.

"Troopers want to take this time to remind motorists that train operators have the ability to stop the train, but it can take several minutes for the engine to come to a complete stop," points out Trooper David. "That is why it is so important to look and listen for trains when approaching a railroad crossing and to always yield the right of way to trains."

For more information about rail safety or to request a free safety presentation, please visit the Louisiana Operation Lifesaver web site at www.laoperationlifesaver.org or contact your nearest Louisiana State Police Public Information Officer.

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