A multi-vehicle fatality crash on Interstate 49 near mile marker 8 in Lafayette Parish that occurred at about 8 p.m. Monday claimed the life of 41-year-old Jeremy D. Jackson of Carencro, according to a news release from Louisiana State Police Troop I.
State Police said Jackson was driving a 2006 Chevrolet Silverado north on I-49 at a high rate of speed when he struck the rear of a 2004 Chevrolet Suburban. The Suburban was then pushed into the rear of a 2010 Chevrolet Avalanche driven by 74-year-old John Lee of Scott, State Police said. Jackson’s Silverado then crossed the median and entered into the southbound lanes of I-49. The Silverado then struck the driver’s side of a 1997 Ford Ranger pickup, which was then struck by a Jeep Wrangler.
Jackson was unrestrained at the time of the crash and was pronounced deceased at the scene by the Coroner’s Office. His passenger was also unrestrained and transported to a local hospital in critical condition. All other drivers and passengers were properly restrained and suffered injuries ranging from minor to moderate.
A toxicology sample was obtained from Jackson, the driver of the Suburban. A breath sample was obtained from the driver of the Wrangler and from the Ranger.
Lee, the driver of the Avalanche, was tested and found to be impaired at the time of the crash, State Police said. Subsequently, Lee was charged with DWI 1st offense and impeding the flow of traffic. This crash remains under investigation.
In 2020, Troop I has investigated 42 fatal crashes resulting in 47 deaths.