Pedestrian Killed in Secondary Crash in Tangipahoa Parish Crash

Amite - On October 6, 2024, at approximately 6:45 a.m., Troopers with Louisiana State Police Troop L began investigating a fatal crash involving a pedestrian on Interstate 55 near LA Hwy 16 in Tangipahoa Parish. The crash claimed the life of 29-year-old Cierra Porche of Hammond.

The initial investigation showed that two separate crashes occurred in the same general location along Interstate 55 northbound, only minutes apart. The first crash involved a 2007 Saturn Vue, driven by Porche. The Saturn was traveling northbound in the left lane. Simultaneously, a 2022 Ford Edge was traveling northbound in the right lane. Preliminary findings indicate the Saturn crossed into the right lane and struck the rear left side of the Ford. As a result, the Ford came to rest in the median, while the Saturn stopped in the right northbound lane's ditch.

Following the initial crash and before emergency personnel arrived, Porche exited her vehicle and walked from the right side of the roadway to the median. After leaving the median, Porche was walking into the left lane of Interstate 55 when a 2022 GMC 2500, which was traveling northbound in the left lane, struck Porche.

Porche sustained fatal injuries as a result of the second crash and was pronounced deceased at the scene. The driver of the GMC was properly restrained and uninjured. Impairment is not suspected on the part of the GMC driver who provided a breath sample of .000g%. A routine toxicology sample was obtained from Porche for analysis as part of the ongoing investigation.

Troopers urge pedestrians to exercise caution when walking near roadways. Wearing reflective materials, avoiding distractions, and keeping a safe distance from traffic lanes while facing oncoming vehicles can help prevent pedestrian-related crashes. Motorists should also stay alert when approaching disabled vehicles or pedestrians on the roadside. If you witness any hazardous situations, please dial *LSP (577) to report it to the Louisiana State Police.