Louisiana State Police News Release
Date Posted: 12/30/2021
Troop I

TROOP I NEWS RELEASE
December 30, 2021

Intoxication Determined as Major Factor in Quadruple Fatality Crash in St. Landry Parish

Update: Toxicology tests from John Lundy, the driver that caused the head-on collision on December 17, 2021, that claimed his life and the lives of three innocent victims, have been completed by the Louisiana State Police Crime Lab. The results of the tests confirm Lundy’s alcohol level at the time of the crash was nearly three times the legal limit for intoxication.

As we approach this New Year’s Eve and New Year’s celebrations, let us do so remembering those who have died this past year as a result of someone else’s careless decision to get behind the wheel impaired. Let us not lose the lesson of the devastating consequences those poor decisions have had on our communities. Please resolve to have a plan, to never drive impaired by drugs or alcohol, and to always wear your seat belt.

Louisiana State Police Troop I offers our sincerest condolences to all the families of the 76 people who have died on our highways in our area this past year. May we never need to utter the words ‘death notification’ again.

Original:


Louisiana Motor Vehicle Crashes Continue to Devastate Families Ahead of Christmas Holidays

St Landry Parish – On December 17, 2021, shortly after 9:00 p.m., Louisiana State Police Troop I was notified of a two-vehicle crash at mile post 40 on I-49 (near LA 29) in St. Landry Parish. The crash claimed the life of 54-year-old John Lundy of Dallas, Georgia, 20-year-old Lindy Rae Simmons, 14-year-old Kamryn Simmons, and 16-year-old Christopher Simmons, all of Jeanerette.

The initial investigation revealed Lundy was driving a 2005 Chevrolet Colorado pickup north in the southbound lanes of I-49. Lindy Simmons was driving a 2017 Cadillac XT5 SUV south on I-49. The vehicles struck head-on in the left lane.

Lundy, whose restraint use is unknown, was pronounced dead at the scene. Lindy Simmons, who was restrained, was also pronounced dead at the scene. Kamryn and Christopher Simmons were transported to local hospitals where they ultimately succumbed to their injuries. Two other passengers in the SUV were also transported and remain in critical condition.

Standard toxicology samples were obtained from both drivers; results are pending at the Louisiana State Police Crime Lab. This crash remains under investigation.

In one night the lives of several families have changed forever due to preventable circumstances. Over and over again, Troopers see the tragic consequences of preventable motor vehicle crashes. The Louisiana State Police urges motorists to have a plan in place that includes always wearing your seat belt, never driving distracted or tired, and having a designated driver or an alternate ride home when consuming alcohol. Please choose to not drive impaired or ride with an impaired driver.

Troop I has investigated 61 fatal crashes resulting in 75 deaths in 2021.

Contact Information:
TFC Thomas Gossen
Louisiana State Police
Troop I Public Affairs
Office: (337) 262-5880
thomas.gossen@la.gov