St. Charles Parish 12/08/2015 —  – Lousiana State Police report that on Dec. 2, 2015 at approximately 9:30 pm, Louisiana State Police Troop B was notified of a fatal crash on LA 18 near LA 3142. The two-vehicle crash claimed the life of 34-year-old Travis Joseph of St. James, LA.

Preliminary investigation revealed that Joseph was driving a 2002 Ford Escort west on LA 18 and, for unknown reasons, the Ford Escort crossed into the eastbound lane of travel and struck a 2002 GMC Envoy head-on. The GMC Envoy was driven by Marshall Smith (age 55) of Ethel, LA. Smith sustained moderate injuries and was transported to St. Charles General Hospital along with a passenger from Mr. Joseph’s vehicle, Cortney Madere (age 27) of Des Allemands, LA. Joseph was pronounced dead on the scene.

Troopers suspect that Joseph was impaired at the time of the crash and a toxicology test is pending an autopsy. Smith and Madere were wearing seat belts, however, Joseph was not. The crash remains under investigation.

42% of Louisiana’s fatal crashes in 2014 were caused by alcohol impairment. Troopers witness first-hand the devastating effects that impaired driving crashes have on families across our state. Driving impaired is illegal. Louisiana State Police would like to remind citizens that having a plan in place for a safe ride home decreases fatal and injury crashes. Always remember to drive sober, never get into a vehicle with an impaired driver and always buckle up, regardless of your seating position! These few simple steps will greatly reduce your chances of being injured or killed in motor vehicle crashes.

Buckle Up Louisiana, It’s the Law!!