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Lafourche Parish – On December 17, 2021, shortly after 1:00 p.m., Louisiana State Police Troop C was notified of a two-vehicle crash on Louisiana Highway 316 near Maggie Lane. The crash claimed the life of 29-year-old Christopher Benoit Jr. of Thibodaux.

The preliminary investigation revealed Jacob Ford of Houma was traveling north on LA Hwy 316 in a 2013 Kenworth tow truck. At the same time, Benoit was southbound on LA Hwy 316 in a 2019 Nissan Versa.  For reasons still under investigation, the Kenworth crossed the centerline and struck the Nissan head-on. After impact, both vehicles came to rest off the roadway in a nearby ditch.

Ford was restrained at the time of the crash and suffered no injuries. Benoit, who was restrained, was transported with severe injuries to a nearby hospital where he later died. The Nissan’s passenger, who was restrained, was also transported to a nearby hospital with moderate injuries.

Impairment is not considered a factor in this crash. Ford submitted to a breath sample that indicated no alcohol present. A standard toxicology sample was also collected from Benoit and submitted for analysis.

While this crash remains under investigation, making good choices while behind the wheel of a motor vehicle can often mean the difference between a safe drive and one that ends in tragedy. Obeying all traffic laws and never driving while impaired, fatigued, or distracted are the number one things motorists can do to help make their trip a successful one.

Troop C has investigated 43 fatal crashes resulting in 58 deaths in 2021.