Carey Austin Killed in Fatal Single-Vehicle Crash in St. Helena Parish

On October 20, 2024, Louisiana State Police Troop L responded to a devastating single-vehicle crash on LA Hwy 16 near LA Hwy 449 in St. Helena Parish. The incident, which occurred at approximately 2:40 a.m., tragically claimed the life of 33-year-old Carey Austin, a resident of Independence, Louisiana.

According to the preliminary investigation, Austin was driving a 2008 Ford F-150 westbound on LA Hwy 16 when, for reasons yet to be determined, the vehicle veered off the roadway and struck a tree. The impact of the crash was severe, and Austin, who was not wearing a seatbelt, sustained fatal injuries. Emergency responders arrived on the scene but pronounced Austin dead upon their arrival.

A passenger in the vehicle, whose name has not been released, was restrained and survived the crash, though with critical injuries. The passenger was transported to a nearby hospital for urgent medical treatment. The condition of the passenger remains unknown, but authorities are closely monitoring the situation.

As is standard procedure in fatal crashes, troopers collected routine toxicology samples from Austin to determine whether impairment played a role in the accident. The results of these tests are pending, but investigators are looking into all possible factors, including impairment, fatigue, and distractions, which could have contributed to the crash.

Louisiana State Police continue to remind the public about the importance of wearing seatbelts and practicing safe driving habits. Statistics have shown that wearing a seatbelt significantly reduces the risk of serious injury or death in the event of a crash. In Austin’s case, authorities stressed that wearing a seatbelt could have made a life-saving difference.

The investigation into the crash is ongoing, and further details will be provided as they become available. The Louisiana State Police are urging anyone with additional information related to the incident to come forward to assist in the inquiry.

Carey Austin’s death is a reminder of the devastating consequences of roadway accidents and the importance of adhering to safety measures that can help prevent such tragedies.