New Iberia Teen Dies In Car Crash

A two car crash in Iberia Parish last night claimed the life of one of the drivers involved.

Louisiana State Police Troop I spokesman Trooper Stephen Hammons says 17 year old Erin LaSalle was driving east on LA Highway 677 when she apparently failed to stop at a two-way stop sign and turned left on to LA Highway 344.  A pickup driven by 33 year old Jared St. Martin of Kaplan struck the left side of LaSalle's car.

LaSalle was not wearing a seat belt and she died at the scene as a result of the crash.  St. Martin was not injured.

Routine toxicology samples were obtained and the accident remains under investigation.

A lack of seat belt use continues to be a factor in fatal crashes in the Troop I area.  State Police say wearing a seat belt may not save your life in every crash it will reduce your risk of injury in most crashes.