Three-Vehicle Fatal Crash Kills Two in St. Landry Parish on Interstate 49

On April 3, 2024, shortly after 2:00 a.m., Louisiana State Police Troop I was notified of a three-vehicle fatal crash on Interstate 49, about two miles north of US 167. The crash claimed the lives of 67-year-old Janie Hobbs and 34-year-old Shannon Thibodeaux, both of Lafayette.

The preliminary investigation revealed 64-year-old Bryan Dugan, of Duncan, Oklahoma, was traveling south on I-49 while driving a 2017 Ford F-150. At the same time, a 2022 Nissan Titan and a 2024 International tow truck were parked on the right shoulder of I-49, after the Nissan had become disabled with a flat tire. For reasons still under investigation, the F-150 exited the lane of travel and struck the rear of the Nissan, pushing it forward into the tow truck. As a result of the collision, Thibodeaux, who was the tow truck operator, and the driver of the Nissan were struck while outside of the vehicles.

Thibodeaux and Hobbs (passenger in the Nissan) suffered fatal injuries and died at the scene. Dugan, along with two additional passengers in the Nissan, and the Nissan driver (standing out of the vehicle), all suffered moderate to severe injuries. All four were transported to a local hospital for treatment.

Charges against Dugan are pending. This crash remains under investigation.

Safe driving is paramount for the safety of yourself and others on the roadway. Always obey speed limits and follow traffic rules to minimize the risk of crashes. Avoid distractions like texting or using your phone and never drink or consume drugs and drive. Drive as if your life, and the lives of others, depends on it because it does.

Troop I has investigated 12 fatal crashes resulting in 13 deaths in 2024.