The New Orleans Police Department is currently searching for the driver of a vehicle involved in a deadly crash on December 11, 2024. According to NOPD, Fatality Investigators are searching for Joneaka Smooth who is wanted on two counts of Manslaughter, one count of Negligent Injury, one count of Hit & Run, and one count of Flight From an Officer.

Investigators allege that Smooth was driving a 2013 Mercedes GLK that was traveling at a high rate of speed on Interstate 610 around 7:39 p.m. As the driver exited the St. Bernard Avenue off-ramp, the driver failed to negotiate a right-hand turn causing the vehicle to cross two lanes and strike an elevated grassy median.

Authorities say the Mercedes launched into the air and struck a 2022 Toyota Camry. According to NOPD, a 17-year-old female in the Toyota was pronounced deceased at the scene. Two other victims in the Toyota were taken to an area hospital for treatment.

On Thursday, another 17-year-old female died of her injuries. A third teenage girl is reportedly in stable condition. Investigators say the occupants of the Mercedes fled with one being captured by Jefferson Parish deputies.

The 37-year-old woman was turned over to NOPD and booked on a shoplifting warrant. NOPD says two other women in the vehicle remain at large, including the driver, Joneaka Smooth.

NOPD asks anyone with information to call Traffic Fatality Unit detectives at 504-658-6205 or Crimestoppers at 504-822-1111.

 

#NOPD is looking for the pictured woman, Joneaka Smooth, pictured DOB: 12-13-1993 in connection with a fatal crash last night that claimed the lives of two young women.
Read more:https://t.co/WotcMJbDcZ pic.twitter.com/3DujbR8Mqz

— New Orleans Police Department (@NOPDNews) December 12, 2024