EVANGELINE PARISH- Today, Louisiana State Police Troop I investigated a single vehicle fatal crash on LA Highway 3277 west of LA Highway 3158 which claimed the life of a Mamou man.  

According to investigating troopers, on July 7, 2012, at 12:16 hours, 20-year-old Garrett Deshotels of Mamou, was driving a 1999 Chevrolet truck south on LA Highway 3277.  Deshotels drove off the right side of the road, steered back to the left, crossed the highway and drove off the left side of the road.  After traveling off the road, Deshotels’ vehicle struck a crawfish pond levee.  Deshotels, who was unrestrained, was ejected from the vehicle.  He was pronounced dead by the Evangeline Parish Coroner.  

It is unknown if Deshotels was impaired when the crash occurred; however, routine toxicology samples have been obtained and will be submitted to the Louisiana State Police Crime Lab for analysis.  

This crash remains under investigation.  

Troopers remind drivers and occupants of motor vehicles that state law requires everyone to be properly restrained.  When properly worn, a seatbelt can greatly reduce your risk of injury in most crashes.  This is the 4th fatal crash Troop I has investigated this month.