With profound sadness and heavy hearts, family, friends, and members of the St. Martinville, Louisiana, community are mourning the heartbreaking loss of Randall P. Belaire, 26, whose life ended following a tragic crash on Interstate 55 near Louisiana Highway 442 in Tangipahoa Parish late Friday night.
According to the Louisiana State Police, Randall was an unrestrained rear-seat passenger in a 2009 Chevrolet Trailblazer that was stopped on the right shoulder of Interstate 55 with its hazard lights activated.
Investigators said a Kia Carnival, driven by Brianna L. Hutson, 27, of Magnolia, Mississippi, was traveling south on Interstate 55 when, for reasons that remain under investigation, the vehicle veered off the roadway to the right and struck the rear of the stopped Chevrolet.
Randall sustained fatal injuries in the collision and was pronounced deceased at the scene.
Authorities said the driver of the Chevrolet and three other passengers, all of whom were properly restrained, suffered minor injuries and were transported to a local hospital for treatment.
The driver of the Kia and a front-seat passenger were also properly restrained and sustained minor injuries. Both were transported to a local hospital for evaluation and treatment.
During the investigation, Louisiana State Police said the driver of the Kia showed signs of impairment. After being medically cleared at the hospital, Brianna L. Hutson was booked into the Tangipahoa Parish Correctional Facility. She has been charged with vehicular homicide, five counts of vehicular negligent injuring, careless operation, and open container.
The investigation into the fatal crash remains ongoing as troopers continue working to determine all of the circumstances surrounding the collision.
Randall’s sudden passing has left an immeasurable void in the hearts of his family, friends, and everyone who knew him. At just 26 years old, his life was tragically cut short, leaving behind cherished memories that will forever be held close by those who loved him.
As the St. Martinville community mourns this heartbreaking loss, loved ones are remembering Randall for the life he lived, the relationships he built, and the kindness he shared with others. Though his time on earth ended far too soon, his memory will continue to live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know him.
The Louisiana State Police have extended their condolences to all those affected by this tragic crash as the investigation continues.
Rest peacefully, Randall P. Belaire. Your life will always be remembered, your memory will forever be cherished, and you will never be forgotten.
