A toddler was killed Tuesday night during a two-vehicle crash on I-10 about three miles east of the Texas state line in Calcasieu Parish.
The crash occurred shortly before 9:00 pm on February 2 and claimed the life of a three-year-old.
A preliminary investigation by state police found that a vehicle driven by 41-year-old Blaine Keith Lecompte of Lake Charles was traveling west on I-10 in the right lane when it failed to reduce speed and struck the back of an 18-wheeler.
Troopers say the 18-wheeler was slowing to a stop due to traffic congestion in the area.
As a result of the impact, troopers say the Jeep became lodged under the trailer of the 18-wheeler.
A toddler in the Jeep, who troopers say was not properly restrained, received fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene.
The driver, front seat passenger, and another juvenile passenger in the Jeep were all properly restrained and sustained minor to moderate injuries. The driver of the 18-wheeler was properly restrained and not injured.
Troopers say Lecompte was charged with DWI with child endangerment, first degree negligent injuring, no child restraint, suspended driver’s license, and careless operation. Additional charges are possible, they say.
Toxicology samples were obtained from Lecompte and submitted for analysis.
The crash remains under investigation.
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