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NOPD Investigating Traffic Fatality in the First District

by Paris Holmes

February 12, 2021

Categories: On Duty

Topics: First District, Traffic Fatality/Hit and Run

NOPD Investigating Traffic Fatality in the First District

The NOPD is investigating a fatal vehicle crash that occurred this morning (February 12, 2020) on I-10 East near North Claiborne Avenue.

At around 4:43 a.m., NOPD First District officers responded to a call of a two-vehicle accident at the location.  The initial investigation has revealed that a car was heading eastbound on 1-10 when, for unknown reasons, it was struck from behind by a truck travelling in the same direction.  Both vehicles spun out of control for several feet, hitting the guard rails, before stopping. 

The male driver of the car died at the scene, while the male driver of the truck was taken into custody.  The driver of the truck is being tested for impairment. 

No further information is available at this time.  The Orleans Parish Coroner’s Office will identify the decedent and determine the official cause of death, upon completion of autopsy and notification of family. 

NOPD Traffic Fatality Investigator Mike Baldassaro is in charge of the investigation and can be reached at 504-658-6208 with any information regarding this investigation.