ATV Rider Dies from Injuries in October Plaquemines Parish Crash

Venice - On Wednesday, October 23, 2024, around 1:15 pm, Troopers with Louisiana State Police Troop B were notified of a two-vehicle crash on LA 23 near Tide Water Road in Plaquemines Parish. The crash ultimately claimed the life of 22-year-old Alec Pelas of Venice.

The preliminary investigation revealed that Pelas was driving a 2002 Honda TRX 350 ATV south on LA 23 near Tidewater Road while a 2016 GMC Sierra was traveling north on LA 23. For reasons still under investigation, the ATV crossed the centerline and struck the left front side of the GMC.

Pelas, who was not wearing a helmet, suffered serious injuries and was transported to a local hospital, where he remained in critical condition. On Sunday, November 3, 2024, Pelas died due to his injuries from the crash. At the time of the crash, the driver of the GMC was properly restrained and uninjured. As part of the ongoing investigation, routine toxicology samples were obtained from both drivers for analysis. This crash remains under investigation.

Troopers wish to remind the public that the use of ATVs and UTVs on roadways is illegal unless directly related to farming or other duties outlined by Louisiana Revised Statue 32:299. Additionally, properly utilizing safety equipment, such as DOT-approved helmets while on motorcycles, ATVs, and UTVs and seatbelts when riding in UTVs can decrease the risk of serious injury or death. Additional information on ATVs and UTVs on roadways can be found here by following this link: https://www.legis.la.gov/Legis/Law.aspx?d=88237

Contact Information:
Trooper First Class Jacob Pucheu
Louisiana State Police
Public Affairs Section - Troop B
Office: (504) 471-2775
[email protected]