Tragedy struck Ascension and East Baton Rouge parishes on Friday, November 21, with two separate accidents that resulted in fatalities. According to a press release from the Louisiana State Police, the first incident occurred around 7:45 p.m. when 20-year-old Matthew Shields was involved in a collision on LA Hwy 42 at Muddy Creek Road. Although wearing a helmet, the impact was too severe, and Shields could not survive his injuries and was later pronounced dead at a local hospital.
On the same evening, at 11:45 p.m., another crash claimed the life of 73-year-old Hezzie McCaleb in East Baton Rouge Parish. McCaleb was walking near the center line of Plank Rd. when a northbound Chevrolet Silverado struck him. State Troopers responding to the scene had to tragically confirm that McCaleb succumbed to his injuries on-site. The driver of the Silverado is not currently suspected to have been impaired, but toxicology reports are still to come forth.
The driver involved in the first crash, Danny Tabor, Jr., faces multiple charges, including negligent homicide. Tabor was not injured in the accident. At the time of his arrest, he was driving under suspension, without insurance, and had an expired Motor Vehicle Inspection. State Troopers have made it clear that disregard for traffic laws and safe driving practices can have devastating consequences. As they continue their investigations into these accidents, officials remind motorists to always yield, particularly when making turns, and pedestrians to remain vigilant, according to the Louisiana State Police.
These accidents are grim reminders of the fragility of life on the road. The Louisiana State Police used these incidents to reemphasize the safety message for both drivers and pedestrians: to never drive impaired or distracted, and to ensure that pedestrians wear visible clothing and proceed cautiously, recognizing that not all drivers may see them. They have emphasized that the decision to sometimes take simple precautions can often mean the difference between life and death.
