LAPLACE – A LaPlace man was killed Sunday afternoon in a motorcycle crash on Belle Terre Boulevard.

At approximately 1:25 p.m., Louisiana State Police Troop B responded to a fatal crash in St. John the Baptist Parish that claimed the life of 28-year-old Gary C. Joseph.

Preliminary investigation revealed that Joseph was operating a 2012 Yamaha RZFR1 motorcycle north on Louisiana Highway 3188 in the left lane. Joseph was traveling at a high rate of speed and failed to negotiate a left curve. Joseph traveled into the raised median and struck two road signs. He was transported to River Parishes Hospital where he was pronounced dead. Impairment is unknown, and toxicology results are pending an autopsy. The crash remains under investigation.

Troopers remind motorists that driving at high speeds is dangerous and often leads to serious injuries or death in motor vehicle crashes. Motorcyclists must wear a proper U.S. D.O.T. helmet when operating a motorcycle on Louisiana roadways. Although not all crashes are survivable, properly utilizing safety equipment, like approved motorcycle helmets and seatbelts, decrease the risk of serious injury or death.

Motorists that witness hazardous situations are urged to call *LSP (*577) and report that activity to the Louisiana State Police.