Iberia Parish – Shortly before 4:30 p.m. on August 12, 2022, Louisiana State Police Troop I began
investigating a two-vehicle crash on Louisiana Highway 85 near Louisiana Highway 673 in Iberia Parish. The
crash claimed the life of 24-year-old Mariah A. Francis of Jeanerette.
The preliminary investigation revealed Francis was driving a 2011 Cadillac SRX south on LA 85. At the same
time, a 2014 Case farm tractor was being driven north on LA 85. Francis failed to negotiate a curve and her
Cadillac crossed the center line striking the farm tractor near the center of the northbound lane.
Despite being properly restrained, Francis suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene by the
Iberia Parish Coroner’s Office. Three passengers in Francis’ Cadillac were transported to a local hospital with
minor to moderate injuries. The driver of the tractor reported no injuries and refused treatment on the scene.
Impairment on the part of both drivers is unknown at this time but toxicology results have been submitted to the
Louisiana State Police Crime Lab for analysis. This crash remains under investigation.