St. Landry Parish - Shortly before 10:00 a.m on Sunday September 27th, 2015, Troopers from Louisiana State Police Troop I responded to a single vehicle fatal crash on LA 754 near Alton Road in St. Landry Parish.  The crash left a two year old dead and two others transported to local hospitals.

The preliminary investigation revealed a 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer, operated by 33 year old Shaparia Citizen of Church Point, was traveling east on LA 754 and entered a right curve.  For reasons still under investigation, Citizen ran off of the right side of the roadway, traveled through a ditch, up the embankment, and struck several trees.   

Citizen and two other juvenile passengers sustained minor injuries in the crash.  Citizen refused aid on scene and the two juvenile passengers were transported to local hospitals.  A two year old child seated in the rear of the vehicle in a child passenger safety seat, suffered severe injuries and was transported to Opelousas General. Shortly after arriving, the child succumbed to injuries sustained in the crash and was pronounced deceased. 

Troopers determined Citizen was not impaired at the time of the crash. However, blood samples were obtained and will be submitted to the Louisiana State Police Crime Lab for analysis, 

This crash remains under investigation

Distractions continue to cause motor vehicle crashes throughout the Acadiana area.  Troopers urge motorist to pay attention on the roadway.  Cellphone use, radios and passengers are just a few of the major distractions facing drivers.  Remember, before putting a vehicle in drive, everyone inside of the vehicle must be properly restrained.  If parents or caregivers are not sure on how to properly install a child safety seat, please contact your nearest State Police Troop. Louisiana State Police Troop I conducts child safety seats for proper installation every Wednesday from 8:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m., at Troop I, 121 E. Pont Des Mouton Lafayette, LA.