Shortly after 8:30 p.m. this past Saturday evening, troopers from Louisiana State Police Troop L began investigating a one vehicle fatal crash on LA Hwy 16, about 4 miles west of Highway 25 near Kit Kaw Road. The crash claimed the life of 62-year-old Jerry Cyprian of Bogalusa.
The initial investigation revealed that the accident occurred as a 2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee, driven by Kieanna Mitchell of Bogalusa, was headed eastbound on Highway 16. For reasons not known but still under investigation, the Jeep traveled off of the roadway to the right. After leaving the roadway, the Jeep began to overturn, causing two passengers to be ejected from the vehicle.
Cyprian was not wearing a seatbelt and was ejected from the vehicle. He sustained fatal injuries as a result of the crash. Cyprian was pronounced deceased on the scene. Another passenger was also unrestrained and was ejected from the vehicle. The passenger sustained moderate injuries as a result of the crash.
Mitchell, the driver, was properly restrained with a seatbelt and sustained moderate injuries as a result of the crash. Both Mitchell and the injured passenger were transported to Riverside Medical Center.
According to state police, mpairment is suspected to be a factor in the crash on the part of Mitchell. Troopers arrested Mitchell on charges of Vehicular Homicide, Vehicular Negligent Injuring, Third Offense DWI, Careless Operation, and Driving Under Suspension of Drivers License.
A toxicology sample was obtained from Mitchell for analysis. The accident remains under investigation.
