A fatal three-vehicle collision that occurred yesterday, in St. Bernard Parish, has resulted in the death of a local woman, as confirmed by Louisiana State Police. The incident, which took place around 11:30 a.m. on E. Judge Perez Highway near Bartolo Street, involved 91-year-old Rita Owens of St. Bernard, who succumbed to her injuries subsequent to the crash.
According to the Louisiana State Police, Rita Owens was behind the wheel of a 2016 Nissan Versa, traveling southbound when her vehicle collided with another 2019 Nissan Versa. The collision then caused Owens’ car to veer into an adjacent lane, which was closed for construction purposes, ultimately striking a stationary Ford F350. Tragically, Owens was not wearing a seatbelt at the time of the impact and was transported to a local hospital with severe injuries, where she eventually passed away.
The ongoing investigation into this three-vehicle crash has highlighted once more the crucial role safety restraints play in vehicular accidents. Owens, who was not restrained, suffered outcomes far graver in the crash, in stark contrast to the other involved parties; the driver of the 2019 Nissan Versa who was buckled up reported no injuries, as did the occupant of the Ford. As part of regular procedure, standard toxicology samples were collected for analysis to further understand the circumstances of the accident.
The Louisiana State Police reiterated the importance of buckling up, stating that "buckling up is the most effective way to protect yourself while driving or riding in a vehicle." The tragic incident serves as a solemn reminder of the life-saving potential a few seconds spent fastening a seatbelt can represent. As the community mourns the loss of one of its own, the message becomes clear: Always remember to, not forget to buckle up before embarking on any journey, despite the distance.
