Louisiana State Police Troop A is investigating a two-vehicle crash involving a motorcycle that claimed the life of a Baton Rouge woman Jan. 27. The crash occurred on La. Hwy. 10 west of La. Hwy. 955 in East Feliciana Parish shortly after 2 p.m. Friday afternoon.

Troopers’ preliminary investigation revealed that Hubert Millet, 74, of Slaughter, was driving a 2003 Ford passenger car when he pulled out from a private drive attempting to turn left onto Hwy. 10 into the path of a 2010 Harley Davidson, being operated by Bernard Schweitzer, 51, of Dodge, N. Dakota.

The motorcycle struck the left side of the vehicle, and Schweitzer and his passenger were both thrown from the motorcycle. Schweitzer sustained serious injuries and was transported to a Baton Rouge hospital. His passenger, Debra Benoit, 48, of Baton Rouge, sustained fatal injuries in the crash. Benoit was pronounced deceased on the scene by the East Feliciana Coroner’s Office.

Millet and his passenger, Ruby Millet, 67, of Slaughter, were both uninjured in the crash.

Troopers do not suspect alcohol to have been a factor in this crash. However, a sample of Schweitzer’s blood will be submitted to the Louisiana State Police Crime Lab for chemical analysis.

No charges have been filed at this time, and the crash remains under investigation.

Troopers remind motorists to be alert at all times while behind the wheel of a vehicle. Distractions such as cell phones, radios and other passengers often lead to crashes on our highways. Instances of crashes are reduced greatly when these distractions are not present.

Drivers are strongly urged to concentrate and fully focus on the task of driving while behind the wheel.