A fatal crash on Louisiana Highway 347 near Lou Gauthier Road claimed the life of 49-year-old Harvey Gauthier of St. Martinville in the early hours of Friday last week. The Louisiana State Police Troop I is investigating the incident, which involved a hit-and-run 18-wheeler, as per the Louisiana State Police release.
According to preliminary findings, Gauthier was riding a 2007 Honda off-road motorcycle southbound when he suddenly braked, causing the motorcycle to skid and fall on its side. He was thrown from the vehicle and came to rest partially in the northbound lane, where he was struck by a passing 18-wheeler that did not stop. Gauthier was pronounced dead at the scene. A toxicology sample was collected for analysis.
Troopers are asking for public assistance in locating the 18-wheeler and its driver. Anyone with information is urged to contact Louisiana State Police Troop I at (337) 262-5880, the LSP Fusion Center Hotline at 1-800-434-8007, or submit a tip through the Louisiana State Police’s online reporting system.
