Regional Industry & News

1 dead, 5 injured and driver arrested after crash in LaSalle

LASALLE PARISH, La. (KNOE) - A 16-year-old died, an 18-year-old was arrested and five others were injured following a crash in LaSalle Parish Friday morning.

Louisiana State Police (LSP) said Troop E responded to a fatal crash on Hunt Road near Dewey Wils WMA at 4:49 a.m.

Kent Sanson, of Deville, died in the crash.

The initial investigation revealed that a 2011 Chevrolet Silverado, driven by Reese McKenzie, was traveling north on Hunt Road, investigators said.

LSP said McKenzie lost control of the vehicle, which caused it to leave the roadway and overturn. Multiple passengers were then thrown from the vehicle.

According to LSP, McKenzie and Sanson were not wearing seat belts. McKenzie sustained moderate injuries and was taken to a local hospital for treatment, while Sanson died from his injuries.

LSP said five additional passengers were also not wearing seat belts and were taken to a local hospital for tratement with moderate injuries.

LSP collected routine toxicology samples and investigators believe impairment is a suspected factor in the crash.

After an investigation, LSP arrested McKenzie for careless operation of a vehicle, open container, operating a vehicle while impaired, vehicular negligent injuring (3 counts) and vehicular homicide.

McKenzie was transported and booked into the the LaSalle Parish Sheriff’s Office. The crash remains under investigation.