By: Louisiana State Police

Raceland – Shortly before 10:00 am on July 9, 2019, Louisiana State Police Troop C began investigating a fatal crash on LA Hwy 1 at Four Point Dr. in Lafourche Parish. The crash took the life of 78-year-old Donna Pelcha of Thibodaux.

The initial investigation revealed that the crash occurred as Pelcha was stopped on LA Hwy 1 in a 2003 Mitsubishi Montero. At the same time, 33-year-old Luis Berrios of New Orleans was traveling northbound on LA Hwy 1 in a 2019 Kenworth truck. For unknown reasons, Berrios failed to stop and his vehicle struck the rear of the Mitsubishi. The impact caused the Mitsubishi to strike a pickup truck, and the Kenworth to roll onto its side.

Pelcha was transported to a local hospital where she succumbed to injuries received in the crash. Restraint use on her part is unknown, but impairment is not considered a factor. Berrios suffered minor injuries. Restraint use and impairment on his part is unknown at this time, and a toxicology sample is pending. Berrios was cited for Careless operation, and further charges may be pending as this investigation continues. There is no further information at this time.

Louisiana State Troopers wish to remind motorists to always make good decisions while in a motor vehicle. Never drive while impaired, fatigued, or distracted, always ensure every occupant is properly restrained, and follow all traffic laws. While not all crashes are survivable, taking simple precautions such as these can often mean the difference between life and death.