Fatal crash mars holiday weekend

2 die in Luling car accident

Friday evening, as the Memorial Day weekend was beginning, a 3 vehicle fatality occurred on U.S. 90 in Luling.

According to Louisiana State Police reports, a preliminary investigation revealed that 1995 Dodge Dakota pick-up driven by Arvin Popham, 37, Avondale, was traveling westbound on U.S. 90, when he, for reasons unknown, lost control.

It was noted by police reports that was it raining heavily at the time, but that has not been officially ruled a factor. Popham's truck crossed over the median and was rotating clockwise; it slid into the path of 1998 Honda Accord driven by Catherine Carollo, 53, Meraux.

As the 2 vehicles collided, Carollo's car began rotating clockwise along with Popham's truck. As these 2 vehicles were entangled, they were both struck by a third car, 1990 Jaguar XJ6 driven by Richard Deangelis, 53, Houma. Deangelis was traveling eastbound on U.S. 90.

Both Popham and Carollo died as result of the crash. According to reports, Popham, Deangelis and Pierre VanDoorne -- Deangelis' passenger -- were wearing seatbelts. Carollo was not.

Police officials stated that speed and alcohol don't appear to be a factor, but toxicology reports on Popham and Carollo are still pending. Deangelis was given a breathalyzer and tested negative for alcohol consumption.

VanDoorne, 47, Houma, was transported to Charity Hospital Elmwood, where he was treated for minor injuries.

The investigation is ongoing and Senior Trooper John Neal is working the accident.