NEW IBERIA, La — Authorities have confirmed that 19-year-old Colbi Blanchard of Thibodaux has died from injuries sustained in a serious two-vehicle crash in Iberia Parish earlier this week.
The crash occurred on August 26 around 8 p.m. on U.S. 90 westbound near the La. 675 off-ramp. According to Louisiana State Police, a 2014 Ford Fusion was traveling westbound when, for reasons still under investigation, it veered into the painted gore area and struck the rear of a stopped 2019 International Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV).
Blanchard, who was riding in the front passenger seat of the Ford, and the driver were both properly restrained but suffered serious injuries. The CMV driver, also properly restrained, sustained minor injuries. All three were transported to a nearby hospital for treatment.
On Saturday, authorities confirmed that Blanchard had succumbed to his injuries. Investigators believe driver fatigue may have played a role in the crash. While impairment is not suspected, routine toxicology samples were collected from both drivers for analysis.
The Louisiana State Police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the collision.
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