Metairie – On April 8, 2023, around 12:15 p.m., Troopers with Louisiana State Police Troop B began investigating a three-vehicle fatal crash on I-10 West near Causeway Boulevard in Metairie. The crash ultimately claimed the life of 82-year-old Rodolfo Aldana of Metairie.

The initial investigation revealed that Aldana was driving a 2014 Nissan Versa west on I-10 near Causeway Boulevard. At the same time, 20-year-old Keion Bardell, Jr. of Kenner was driving a 2007 Toyota Camry in a reckless manner in the same area as Aldana. In the process of changing lanes, the Toyota Camry impacted the Nissan Versa causing it to travel to the left and impact the cement barrier wall. The Nissan Versa then traveled back to the right and impacted a 2019 Toyota Corolla that was traveling in the same area. After the initial impact, the Toyota Camry traveled to the left and impacted the cement barrier wall before overturning.

Aldana, who was unrestrained, suffered life threatening injuries and was transported to a local hospital where he died. Bardell was properly restrained, suffered minor injuries and was transported to a local hospital for treatment. The driver of the Toyota Corolla was also properly restrained and not injured in the crash.

As a result of the investigation, Keion Bardell, Jr. was arrested for Negligent Homicide, Reckless Operation and No Insurance and booked into the Jefferson Parish Correctional Center.

Speeding, impairment and lack of seatbelt use continue to be the leading causes of fatal crashes. Troopers encourage the public to have a plan in place to avoid driving impaired. Speeding reduces a driver’s ability to steer safely around curves or objects in the roadway, extends the distance necessary to stop a vehicle, and increases the distance a vehicle travels while the driver reacts to a situation. Troopers would like to remind motorists of the importance of safe decisions behind the wheel. While not all crashes are survivable, wearing a seatbelt greatly reduces the chances of being killed or seriously injured in a crash.