The Louisiana State Police has announced that one driver was killed and another was arrested following a head-on crash in St. Landry Parish. Troopers were notified of a two-vehicle crash on Louisiana Highway 182 near Richmar Loop around 2 a.m. on December 16, 2023.

Authorities say the crash claimed the life of 31-year-old Ledisha A. Roberts of Opelousas. Louisiana State Police said the preliminary investigation indicates that Ledisha Roberts was driving a 2014 Toyota Camry south on LA 182. 41-year-old Joseph L. Richard of Church Point was traveling north in a 2002 Ford F-250.

The F-250 driven by Richard crossed the center line and struck the Camry head-on in the southbound lane of travel. Roberts was unrestrained at the time and suffered fatal injuries. Roberts was pronounced deceased at the scene. Richard was not properly restrained, but reportedly only suffered minor injuries.

A passenger in Richard’s F-250 was restrained and suffered minor injuries. A toxicology sample was taken from Roberts and was submitted for analysis. LSP said Richard submitted a breath sample over the legal limit for intoxication.

Joseph Richard was booked into the St. Landry Paris Jail on charges of Vehicular Homicide, Driving Left of Center, No Insurance, Seatbelt Required, and Driving Under Suspension.