Troopers Investigate Two Fatal Motorcycle Crashes in Terrebonne Parish

Terrebonne Parish – On Friday, September 27, 2019, Troopers with Troop C investigated two separate fatality crashes involving motorcycles within five hours. The first crash took the life of 43-year-old Jacob Paul Dufrene Sr., of Houma and the second crash claimed the life of 55-year-old Scott Melancon of Houma.

Dufrene was traveling east on LA 182 on a 2016 Kawasaki motorcycle at a high rate of speed.

Houma – Louisianna State Police report that shortly before 4:00 pm, Troop C began investigating a two-vehicle fatality crash involving a motorcycle on LA 182 at Hollywood Road. The preliminary investigation revealed Dufrene was traveling east on LA 182 on a 2016 Kawasaki motorcycle at a high rate of speed. As he approached the intersection with Hollywood Road, Dufrene illegally passed several vehicles that were stopped for a red light at the intersection. Dufrene entered the intersection and struck a utility trailer being pulled by a 1994 Ford F-150. It was being driven by 56-year-old Moses Massey of Houma. Massey had a green light and was making a left turn through the intersection. Dufrene was wearing a helmet but suffered critical injuries and was transported to Terrebonne General Medical Center by Acadian Ambulance Service. He was pronounced deceased shortly after arrival. Massey was wearing his seat belt and was not injured. Speed and alcohol are suspected to be a factor on the part of Dufrene and a standard toxicology report is pending. Massey provided a breath sample that showed no alcohol present.

Gray – The second crash occurred shortly before 8:30 pm on US Hwy 90 West just east of LA 24. The preliminary investigation revealed 44-year-old Jean Chiasson of Houma was traveling west on US 90 in the right lane in a 2012 Chevrolet Cruze. Melancon was also traveling westbound on US 90 on a 2015 Yamaha motorcycle in the right lane ahead of Chiasson. For reasons under investigation, Chiasson struck Melancon from behind, causing him to be ejected from his motorcycle. Despite wearing a DOT approved helmet, Melancon suffered fatal injuries. Chiasson was restrained at the time of the crash and not injured. She provided a breath sample that showed no alcohol present. Impairment is unknown on the part of Melancon and a toxicology report is pending. Both of these crashes remain under investigation and no further information is available at this time.

Troopers urge drivers to always be aware of motorcyclists around them and likewise urge motorcyclists to engage in safe riding practices when on our roadways. Motorcyclists should practice safe and responsible operator behavior such as obeying speed limits, wearing a helmet, and never operating their motorcycle under any form of impairment. If motorists witness hazardous situations or possible impaired drivers, they may dial *LSP (*577) to be connected to the nearest Troop to report that activity.

Jacob Paul Dufrene Sr., 43, of Houma, passed away on September 27, 2019. Visitation will be held Friday, October 4, 2019, from 11 am to 3 pm, with the service to start at 3 pm, at Samart Funeral Home of Houma, West Park. He is survived by his wife of 20 years, Lisa B. Dufrene; children, Jenna, Skye, Jacob Jr., and Sophia; siblings, Brandy Dufrene, Cheri Rome, Brian Rome, Waldon “Joey” Dufrene Jr.; nieces and nephews, Bailey, Kayla, Elijah, Jade, Jarred, Jordan, Nevaeh, and Jazzalyn; aunts, uncles, and numerous cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents, Waldon Dufrene Sr. and Darlene Rome. Jacob was a wonderful father, loving husband, and dear friend to many. He will be greatly missed and loved always. Samart Funeral Home of Houma, West Park is in charge of arrangements.