VACHERIE--Shortly after 2 p.m. Monday, a 61-year-old Thibodaux man was killed in a head on crash after he attempted to pass another vehicle on La. 3127, stated Tpr. Evan Harrell in a press release issued by the Louisiana State Police.

The investigation revealed that a 2010 Pontiac Vibe was traveling north on La. 3127 behind a tractor trailer near the Ascension Parish line.

The Vibe was being driven by Jerry Erwin, 61, of Thibodaux. Erwin entered the southbound lane of La. 3127 and attempted to pass the tractor trailer, said Harrell.

A 2000 Freightliner was traveling south on La. 3127 at the same time that Erwin was attempting to pass.

The Freightliner was being driven by Arthur Wilson III, 61, of Plaquemine.

In an attempt to avoid the crash, both vehicles traveled onto the southbound shoulder of LA 3127 where they struck head on, Tpr. Harrell said.

Wilson was not injured in the crash, and Erwin, who was wearing a seat belt, was transported to Our Lady of the Lake Hospital in Baton Rouge where he later died from his injuries, said Harrell.

Alcohol use is unknown at this time and routine toxicology tests are pending for Erwin, Harell stated.

Wilson submitted to a breath test and was cleared of any alcohol involvement. This crash remains under investigation.

Troopers remind motorists to always use caution when passing another vehicle. Never pass another vehicle in an area where there is a solid no passing line indicated on the roadway.

While not all crashes are survivable, proper use of seat belts can greatly decrease an occupant’s chance of death and may greatly reduce the extent of injury.

Motorists that witness hazardous situations are urged to call *LSP (*577) and report that activity to the Louisiana State Police.