A three-vehicle crash on La. 10 at about 6 p.m. Friday killed Mary Chapman, 73, of Eunice, according to a news release from Louisiana State Police Troop I.
The preliminary investigation revealed a 2008 Hyundai Sonata operated by 74-year-old Stanley Nepveaux of Crowley was traveling west on La. 10. The Sonata slowed suddenly for an unknown vehicle stopped in the roadway. A 2016 Freightliner box truck operated by 44-year-old Dewayne Turner of Lafayette was traveling too close behind the Sonata and swerved to the left in an attempt to avoid striking the Sonata. The Freightliner struck the rear left of the Sonata and crossed into the eastbound lane, striking a 2007 Chevrolet Trailblazer operated by 67- year-old Mildred Philips of Eunice.
Chapman was a rear passenger in the Trailblazer. She was wearing a seat belt, but sustained fatal injuries as a result of the crash. Chapman was pronounced deceased on scene by a representative from the St. Landry Parish Coroner’s Office. Philips and another passenger were also restrained, but sustained critical injuries and were transported to local hospitals for treatment. Turner and Nepveaux were both properly restrained and were not injured.
Impairment is not suspected to be a factor in the crash. Turner and Nepveaux voluntarily submitted to chemical tests, and neither were impaired. Troopers are attempting to obtain a toxicology test on Philips at the hospital, but impairment on her part is not suspected. Turner was cited for following too close. This crash remains under investigation.
