Breaux Bridge Man Drowns After Car Plunges into Pond

Louisiana State Police released a statement that a Breaux Bridge man died after crashing into a private pond. Early Sunday morning, around 7:00 a.m., a Louisiana State Trooper was called to investigate the accident, which took place on Louisiana Highway 93 south of Grand Lake Drive in St. Landry Parish.

Unfortunately, 72-year-old Joseph Noel was pronounced deceased at the scene. The single-vehicle fatality crash is still under investigation; however, authorities were able to perform a preliminary investigation that confirmed Noel was driving a 2006 Chrysler 300 north on LA 93.

They know Noel traveled off the main road to the right before crashing into a large private pond and became fully submerged. Authorities are unsure why or what caused him to leave the main roadway. Toxicology samples were collected. However, the accident is still under investigation.

Louisiana State Police warn the local community in their statement about the 'tragic consequences' of distracted driving.

Far too often, Troopers see the tragic consequences of preventable crashes. Troopers wish to remind motorists always to make good decisions while in a motor vehicle. Never drive impaired, fatigued, or distracted. Follow all traffic laws and always ensure every occupant is properly restrained. While not all crashes are survivable, taking simple precautions such as these can often mean the difference between life and death.

Troop I has investigated 21 fatal crashes, resulting in 22 fatalities in 2024.

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