Raceland man killed in St. Mary Parish crash

Centerville – Shortly before 5 p.m. Wednesday,, Troop I was notified of a two-vehicle injury crash on US 90 at LA 317. The crash took the life of 62-year-old Rene Hernandez early this morning.
The preliminary investigation revealed 37-year-old Alton Plaisance, of Avondale, was traveling east on US 90 in a 2012 Kenworth 18-wheeler. He was traveling in the inside lane on the overpass at LA 317 when his trailer became detached from the tractor. The trailer came to rest in the outside lane when it was struck by an eastbound 2017 Ford F-250 driven by Hernandez. Hernandez was properly restrained during the crash and was transported to Our Lady of the Lake in Baton Rouge by Acadian Ambulance Airmed with moderate injuries.
Troop I was contacted this morning by the St. Mary Parish Coroner’s Office who advised that Hernandez had succumbed to his injuries. Plaisance was restrained during the crash and was not injured. Impairment is not suspected to be a factor in this crash on the part of either driver.
Troopers want to remind motorists of the importance of making safe driving decisions behind the wheel. We also ask that all vehicles are periodically checked for safety on all of the components of the vehicle to ensure that they are in proper working order. Distractions, impairment, and fatigued driving continue to be factors in preventable crashes. While not all crashes are survivable, proper use of seat belts can greatly decrease an occupant’s chance of death and may greatly reduce the extent of injury. Troopers want to remind you that Louisiana law requires every vehicle occupant, front seat and back seat, to be properly restrained day or night.