EAST BATON ROUGE PARISH, La. – A tragic accident on River Road in East Baton Rouge Parish is currently under investigation. Authorities reported that a single-vehicle crash occurred around 8:40 p.m. on Monday, April 6, resulting in the deaths of three individuals.
The East Baton Rouge Sheriff’s Office has confirmed the identities of two of the victims as Zacariah Johnson, 20, and Marquis Duncan Jr., 15. A third individual, a 30-year-old man, also lost his life, though his name has not been released at this time. Officials have stated that the information will be shared once the next of kin has been notified.
The crash took place on River Road, south of Gardere Lane. According to the sheriff’s office, the vehicle was traveling north on River Road when it failed to navigate a curve, veered off the road, and struck a utility pole.
Investigators noted that two of the victims were pronounced dead at the scene, while the third was transported to the hospital in critical condition. That individual later succumbed to their injuries several hours after the incident.
While the exact cause of the crash remains under investigation, officials have indicated that speed may have played a role. Toxicology results are still pending and could provide further insight into the circumstances surrounding the accident.
In response to the crash, crews from the St. George Fire Department implemented a temporary closure of River Road, stretching from L’Auberge Crossing to the parish line. Drivers are being advised to seek alternate routes to avoid the affected area.
This story is still developing, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
Watch the latest WAFB news and weather now.
