Mandeville, LA : Jennifer L. Gibson, 33, killed after car crash on U.S. 190 in Mandeville on Wednesday night, April 29, 2015

A passenger was killed in a Mandeville car crash Wednesday night, State Police said. The accident happened on U.S. 190 shortly after 8 p.m.

Police identified the deceased Thursday (April 30) as Jennifer L. Gibson, 33, of Ponchatoula.

A Nissan Maxima driven by Miles B. Wood, 35, was traveling west on U.S. 190 out near Fontainebleau State Park. Witnesses and evidence showed Wood was observing the posted speed limit of 55 mph, according to police. Gibson was riding in the front passenger seat.

Up ahead, an 18-wheel Freightliner driven by 35-year-old Troy A. Brigham of Dallas, was also moving west on U.S. 190 at a slower rate of speed, according to police.

Wood failed to brake as the distance closed between him and the truck, and the front of Wood's Maxima crumpled when it hit the rear of the Freightliner's trailer.

Police said Gibson was not wearing a seat belt and suffered severe injuries. She was taken to Interim LSU Hospital in New Orleans where she died. Brigham was not injured, police said.

Troopers with State Police Troop L do not suspect impairment to be a factor in the crash. Nevertheless, Wood's blood will be analyzed by the Louisiana State Police Crime Lab. A voluntary breath test on the scene detected no trace of alcohol in Brigham.

Once the investigation is completed, state police said they would refer their case to the District Attorney's office for review.

Source :
Ponchatoula woman killed in Mandeville car crash: State Police