Man Succumbs to Injuries Sustained in Two-Vehicle Crash

St. Martin Parish – At approximately 7:45 a.m. on June 10, 2020, Troopers from Louisiana State Police Troop I were notified of a two-vehicle crash on US Highway 90 near Le Triumphe in St. Martin Parish. The crash ultimately took the life of 86-year-old Purvis Picard of New Iberia.

The initial investigation by State Police revealed that the crash occurred as Picard was driving a 2013 Kia Optima westbound on US 90. For unknown reasons, his vehicle struck the rear of a flat-bed trailer being pulled by a 2016 Peterbilt 18-wheeler that was stationary in the left turn lane. Poor visibility due to weather is suspected to be a factor in the crash.

Picard and his passenger were both restrained at the time of the crash.  Both occupants in Picard’s vehicle refused medical attention on the scene. Troopers recently learned Picard was transported to a local hospital by a family member later that same day. On June 22, 2020, State Police was notified that Picard succumbed to his injuries on Saturday, June 20th. This crash remains under investigation.

Troop I has investigated 27 fatal crashes resulting in 29 deaths in 2020.