LSP Update:
****Correction
Please see corrected crash sequence in the body of the press release. The crash sequence should reflect the Toyota Tundra impacting the rear end of the Nissan Maxima, which caused a secondary impact between the Maxima and Prius.
Zachary, La. (11/13/2022) – On November 12, 2022, shortly before 11:00 pm, Troopers with Louisiana State Police Troop (LSP) A began a crash investigatigation. A three-vehicle fatal crash occurred at the intersection of US 61 and LA 64 in East Baton Rouge Parish. The crash ultimately claimed the life of 23-year-old John Anthony Dante Daniels of Wakefield.
The preliminary investigation led Troopers to determine that David Weller of Denham Springs was driving a 2008 Toyota Prius south on US 61 at a high rate of speed. At the same time, a 2013 Nissan Maxima driven by Daniels was stopped behind a 2018 Toyota Tundra at the red traffic light southbound on US 61. A Prius impacted the rear end of the Maxima, which caused a secondary impact between the Maxima and Tundra.
Despite being properly restrained, Daniels sustained fatal injuries. He was pronounced deceased on the scene. Weller was also properly restrained and transported to a local hospital to be treated for moderate injuries. While it is unclear if the driver of the Tundra was restrained, he did sustain minor injuries in the crash. As part of the ongoing investigation, a toxicology sample was obtained from all drivers. The results of the toxicology samples will be submitted for analysis. At this time, it is unknown if an impairment is a factor. Any criminal or traffic violations discovered in the ongoing investigation will be forwarded to the EBR District Attorney’s Office.
Speed, impairment, distractions, and lack of seatbelts continue to represent contributing factors in crashes investigated by the LSP. These preventable crashes often have life-altering consequences for all parties involved. Please speak to your loved ones about the importance of safe driving decisions. Louisiana law requires that every person in a vehicle, regardless of seating position, always buckle up. Properly wearing your seat belt is one of the most effective ways to save your life and reduce injuries in crashes.
