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Robert – This morning, shortly before 4:00 a.m., Troopers from Louisiana State Police Troop L began investigating a two-vehicle fatal crash on I-12 near LA Hwy 445 in Tangipahoa Parish. The crash claimed the lives of 21-year-old Chandler Garcia of Bay St. Louis, MS and 23-year-old John Russo Jr. of Bay St. Louis, MS. 

The initial investigation revealed the crash occurred as Russo was driving east on Interstate 12 in a 2008 Ford F-250. At the same time, an unknown vehicle was also eastbound on Interstate 12 in front of the Ford. For reasons still under investigation, the Ford struck the rear of the unknown vehicle. After initial impact, the Ford traveled off of the road to the right before overturning. The unknown vehicle fled the scene.  

All occupants in the Ford were unrestrained. Both Garcia and Russo sustained fatal injuries as a result of the crash and were pronounced deceased on the scene.A third occupant in the Ford sustained moderate injuries and was transported to a local hospital. A routine toxicology sample was obtained from Russo for analysis. This crash remains under investigation.  

Troopers ask that anyone with any information regarding this crash please contact Louisiana State Police Troop L at (985) 893-6250, or their local law enforcement agency.