NOPD Investigating Fatal Traffic Crash

The NOPD is investigating a fatal traffic crash that occurred this morning (July 17, 2024) on Interstate 610 West at the Elysian Fields Avenue exit.

At about 5:50 a.m., NOPD Third District officers were notified of a vehicle crash at the location. Upon arrival, officers discovered a vehicle crash had occurred involving a Chevrolet Camaro and an 18-wheeler. The driver of the Camaro, an adult male, was declared deceased on scene by New Orleans EMS. The driver of the 18-wheeler did not report any injuries.

Through further investigation, it was determined that both vehicles were traveling westbound on I-610 near the Elysian Fields Avenue exit when, for unknown reasons, the Camaro driver lost control of his vehicle and collided with the center guard rail. After the initial impact, the 18-wheeler then struck the Camaro and came to rest.

At the time of this writing, Interstate 610 West is closed before the Franklin Avenue exit while detectives investigated the scene. Traffic is being diverted onto I-10 West at the I-610 Split near Franklin Avenue. Drivers are urged to seek alternate routes during this closure. The roadway will be reopened once the scene has been cleared.

The investigation included deployment of a drone for use in mapping the crash scene.

Anyone with additional information that can assist in this investigation is urged to contact NOPD Traffic Fatality Unit investigators at 504-658-6205.

Have a question or correction? Please email NOPD's Public Affairs Division at [email protected].