Louisiana State Police Troop A have investigated the single-vehicle crash early Tuesday morning, July 27, on LA 67 north of LA 64 in Zachary.

LSP Troop A says that the double fatality claimed the life of two Baker men.

Troopers’ initial investigation revealed that a 1998 Mercedes 4-door car was traveling north on LA 67 just exiting a right hand curve when the driver lost control of the vehicle.

The vehicle began to rotate clockwise, crossed the southbound lane, and entered the ditch along the west edge of the roadway.

As the vehicle exited the ditch, it continued to rotate clockwise, then began to roll and struck two trees with its roof.

The passenger compartment of the vehicle was crushed and both the driver and passenger were killed instantly.

The East Baton Rouge Coroner’s Office pronounced both deceased on the scene.

Troopers have identified the driver as Joseph Lemons, white male, 27, of Baker and the passenger as Jacob Bernard, white male, 31, of Baker.

Troopers suspect that alcohol and speed were factors in this crash and have submitted a sample of Lemons’ blood to the LSP Crime Lab for chemical analysis.

Impaired drivers accounted for nearly half of the fatal crashes that occurred throughout the state last year. Troopers would like to remind everyone that there is NO excuse for impaired driving.

Making the right decision BEFORE getting behind the wheel of a car impaired, can mean the difference between life and death.