Leonce Paul “LP” Bordelon, III
June 10, 2024
Downtown Houma continues to flourish as the new Pirate’s Pizzeria officially opens its doors
June 10, 2024
On June 9, 2024, shortly before 8:00 p.m., Louisiana State Police Troop C began investigating a two-vehicle fatality crash involving a motorcycle on Louisiana Highway 20 near Louisiana Highway 18. The crash claimed the life of 54-year-old Lansing Octave of Vacherie.
The preliminary investigation found that a 2014 Ford Taurus, driven by 83-year-old Errol Dufresne of Vacherie, was traveling north on LA Hwy 20. At the same time, Octave was traveling south on a 2018 Harley-Davidson motorcycle. Dufresne was attempting to make a left turn into a private drive and crossed into the path of the approaching motorcycle, causing a collision.
Octave sustained serious injuries and was transported to a nearby hospital, where he later died. Dufresne, who was properly restrained, sustained minor injuries. The front-seat passenger of the Ford was not properly restrained, suffered moderate injuries, and was transported to an out-of-area hospital for treatment.
Dufresne was not suspected of being impaired and voluntarily submitted to a breath sample, which showed no alcohol detected. A standard toxicology sample was collected from Octave and submitted for analysis. This crash remains under investigation.
Troopers wish to remind all motorists to make good decisions while in a motor vehicle. Distracted and inattentive driving are some of the leading causes of crashes in our state and have deadly consequences. Also, ensuring every occupant in a vehicle is properly restrained can often mean the difference between life and death in a crash.
Troop C has investigated 11 fatal crashes, resulting in 13 fatalities in 2024.
