Franklin - This afternoon shortly before 3:30 pm, Troopers from Louisiana State Police Troop I began investigating a two vehicle fatal crash that occurred on Martin Ridge Road north of LA Hwy 87 in St. Mary Parish. The crash took the life of 59 year old Jeanerette resident Bradford J. Verret.
The initial investigation by State Police revealed that the crash occurred as Verret was driving a 2001 Dodge Ram westbound on Martin Ridge Rd. At the same time, 36 year old Ron Boutte of New Iberia was driving a 1992 Ford F-150 with a boat trailer eastbound on Martin Ridge Rd. For unknown reasons Verret's Dodge crossed the centerline and struck the boat trailer being pulled by Boutte's Ford. The Dodge then left the roadway and entered into a ditch.
Despite the fact that he was wearing a seatbelt, Verret suffered fatal injuries in the crash. Boutte was properly restrained and was uninjured in the crash. Impairment is not suspected for either driver.
Troopers urge the public to remain vigilant while driving at all times. Never drive a motor vehicle when impaired or fatigued. Always remain buckled up while in a vehicle, regardless of seating position. Avoid distracting activities, especially the temptations of electronic devices that can substantially divert a driver's attention away from the road, and always obey all traffic control devices.