Trooper Injured In Crash With Suspected Impaired Driver On I-10

Gonzales – Around 11:30 am on February 14, 2015, Troopers from Louisiana State Police Troop A began investigating an injury crash involving a Trooper that occurred on I-10 eastbound east of LA Hwy 44 in Ascension Parish. The crash resulted in minor injuries to the Trooper, and a Gonzales man was placed under arrest for 3^rd offense DWI and various other charges after causing the crash.

The initial investigation by State Police revealed that the crash occurred as the Trooper was stopped on the right hand shoulder of I-10 eastbound conducting stationary enforcement. The fully marked State Police Ford Crown Victoria was located partially on the asphalt shoulder and partially in the grass. At the same time, 46 year old Christopher K. Morris of Gonzales was driving eastbound on I-10 in a 2014 Nissan Versa. Morris attempted to pass another eastbound vehicle on the right hand shoulder. As a result, the Nissan struck the rear of the State Police unit.

The Trooper received minor injuries as a result of the crash. He was transported from the scene via ambulance to St. Elizabeth Hospital in Gonzales. Morris and a 13 year old passenger in his vehicle also received minor injuries in the crash. They were both transported from the scene via ambulance to St. Elizabeth Hospital as well.

Impairment on the part of Morris is believed to have been a factor in the crash. A toxicology sample was taken from him and submitted to the Louisiana State Police Crime Lab for analysis. Morris was charged with DWI (3^rd offense), Vehicular negligent injuring (2 counts), Careless operation, Driving under suspension, and Open container. Once treated for injuries and released from St. Elizabeth Hospital, Morris will be transported to and booked into the Ascension Parish jail on the above listed charges.

Louisiana State Troopers wish to remind motorists that impaired driving continues to be a major problem throughout Louisiana. Whether impaired through alcohol, drugs, or a combination of the two, the consequences of driving while impaired remain the same. Troopers will continue to work vigilantly in an effort to actively enforce Louisiana’s DWI laws, especially during a busy Mardi Gras Holiday season.

Categories: State News