Driver Killed in Single-Vehicle Crash in St. Tammany Parish

Mandeville – On April 29, 2024, just before 7:00 p.m., Troopers with Louisiana State Police Troop L responded to a single-vehicle fatal crash on Interstate 12 near LA Highway 59 in Mandeville. The crash claimed the life of 65-year-old Paul Dugas, Jr. of Covington.

The preliminary investigation revealed that Dugas was driving a 2007 Toyota Corolla west on Interstate 12 near LA Highway 59. For reasons still under investigation, the Toyota traveled off the roadway and impacted a tree.

Dugas, who was properly restrained suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. Impairment on the part of Dugas is unknown and routine toxicology results are pending.

Speeding, impairment and lack of seatbelt use continue to be the leading causes of fatal crashes. Troopers encourage the public to have a plan in place to avoid driving impaired. Speeding reduces a driver’s ability to steer safely around curves or objects in the roadway, extends the distance necessary to stop a vehicle, and increases the distance a vehicle travels while the driver reacts to a situation. Troopers would like to remind motorists of the importance of safe decisions behind the wheel. While not all crashes are survivable, wearing a seatbelt greatly reduces the chances of being killed or seriously injured in a crash.

Contact Information:
Sgt. Kate Stegall
Louisiana State Police
Public Affairs Section – Region 1
Office: (225) 925-6202
Kate.Stegall@la.gov