Unrestrained Driver Killed, Another Critically Injured After Four-Vehicle Crash in St. John the Baptist Parish

Laplace - On Friday, November 22, 2024, around 4:00 pm, Troopers with Louisiana State Police Troop B were notified of a four-vehicle crash on US 61 (Airline Highway) near Windsor Street in St. John the Baptist Parish. The crash ultimately claimed the life of 55-year-old Thomas Mixon of Ponchatoula.

The preliminary investigation revealed that Mixon was driving a 2003 Toyota Tundra north on Airline Highway near Windsor Street, in the right lane, behind a 2022 Kia K5. At the same time, a 2005 Toyota Tundra was traveling north on Airline Highway in the left lane, next to Mixon's Toyota. For reasons still under investigation, Mixon attempted to change lanes to pass the Kia and struck the right front of the 2005 Toyota in the left lane. Mixon's Toyota rotated and struck the right rear of the Kia before crossing the center of the roadway and impacting a 2023 Dodge Durango that was traveling south on Airline Highway.

Due to the severity of the crash, Mixon, who was not wearing a seatbelt, was ejected from the vehicle, and died on scene. The driver of the Durango, who was properly restrained, suffered serious injuries and was transported to a local hospital for treatment. At the time of the crash, the driver of the 2005 Toyota and the driver and passenger of the Kia were properly restrained and uninjured. As part of the ongoing investigation, routine toxicology samples were obtained from all drivers for analysis. This crash remains under investigation.

While not all crashes are survivable, wearing seat belts correctly can significantly improve your chances of survival and reduce injury severity. Ensure that the seatbelt is correctly positioned across your hips and shoulders, and make sure that children are securely fastened in appropriate car seats. These measures are crucial for arriving at your destination safely. Additionally, distracted and inattentive driving remains a leading cause of crashes in our state. These simple precautions and adhering to all traffic laws can significantly enhance road safety.

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