Thibodaux – On May 1, 2022, shortly before 8:00 p.m., Louisiana State Police Troop C was notified of a two-vehicle injury crash on Louisiana Highway 3185 at the intersection with Ridgefield Road. The crash ultimately claimed the life of 20-year-old Emily Ledet of Houma.
The preliminary investigation revealed Mark Dyer Jr. of Thibodaux was traveling south on Ridgefield Road in a 2022 RAM 2500. At the same time, a 2006 Ford Escape driven by Reginald Ward of Terrytown was traveling east on LA Hwy 3185. As Dyer approached the intersection with LA Hwy 3185, he failed to yield at a stop sign. The RAM entered the intersection and struck the Ford causing both vehicles to travel off the roadway.
Dyer was unrestrained at the time of the crash and was transported to a hospital with moderate injuries. Ward was unrestrained at the time of the crash and was transported to a hospital with critical injuries. Ledet, who was the rear right passenger of the Ford, was also unrestrained and ejected from the vehicle. She was transported with critical injuries to a hospital where she later died. Four other occupants in the Ford were unrestrained and suffered moderate injuries.
Both Dyer and Ward were suspected of being impaired. Toxicology samples were collected from both drivers and charges are pending following an analysis. This crash remains under investigation.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Association, on average 10,000 people are killed every year in impaired-driving related crashes. Alcohol and other drugs affect your visual ability, fine motor skills, and reaction times. Drivers should have a plan for a safe ride home before consuming any alcohol and/or drugs. Additionally, statistics show that taking just 3 seconds to buckle up before a trip significantly increases your chances of surviving a traffic crash. Always ensure each occupant has their own seat belt and is properly restrained. Every trip. Every time.
Troop C has investigated 14 fatal crashes resulting in 15 deaths in 2022.