Submitted by the Lafayette Police Department
UPDATE
LAFAYETTE, LA (September 2, 2024, 1:34 p.m.) – Throughout the investigation, Lafayette Police Traffic Investigators determined vehicle #1 was traveling Eastbound on the 300 block of Walker Road, approaching the intersection of Huval Street. Vehicle #1 drove off the roadway at Walker Road and Tournoir Street. Once the vehicle left the roadway, vehicle #1 subsequently struck a privacy fence, flipping and striking a tree in a yard on Walker Road.
Lafayette Police Officers arrived on the scene shortly after receiving a 911 call about the crash. Some of the occupants fled the scene; however, the driver was located in the nearby area.
Seven occupants were inside the vehicle during the crash. A rear-seat passenger was transported to a local hospital, where she died as a result of her injuries. The victim was identified as 17-year-old Terry Mitchell of Lafayette.
Two other passengers inside the vehicle were also transported to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
The juvenile driver was transported to the Lafayette Police Department. The driver was charged with the following and booked into the Lafayette Juvenile Detention Center:
- 1 count of Negligent Homicide
- 1 count of Reckless Operation
- 1 count of Unauthorized Use of Automobile
- 1 count of Mandatory Licensure
The Lafayette Police Department’s Traffic Division is investigating this crash. When available, more information will be provided.
UPDATE
LAFAYETTE, LA (September 2, 2024, 10:30 a.m.) – Roads are now open.
UPDATE
LAFAYETTE, LA (September 2, 2024, 7:58 a.m.) – During the investigation, Lafayette Police Traffic Investigators determined vehicle #1 was traveling east on Walker Road. The vehicle left the roadway, striking a ditch and fence causing it to overturn. Several occupants were inside the vehicle during the crash.
Three occupants were transported to a local hospital. Two are listed in stable condition with minor injuries, and one has died as a result of the injuries sustained during the crash. The investigation is ongoing. More information will be provided when available.
ORIGINAL
LAFAYETTE, LA (September 2, 2024, 4:29 a.m.) – Lafayette Police are investigating a major vehicle crash in the 800 block of Walker Road. The preliminary investigation indicates a single vehicle struck a utility pole, causing the vehicle to overturn. One occupant inside the vehicle was transported to a local hospital in critical condition.
Walker Road near Huval Street is closed, and motorists are being asked to use University Avenue or West Willow Street as an alternate route.
Investigators with the Lafayette Police Department are on the scene, and the investigation is ongoing. We will provide updates when more information becomes available.
