Unrestrained Driver Killed in Evangeline Parish Crash

Evangeline Parish – Shortly after 9:00 a.m. on October 19, 2022, Louisiana State Police Troop I was notified of a two-vehicle crash on Louisiana Highway 115 near O’Quin Loop in Evangeline Parish. The crash claimed the life of 75-year-old Rita Vidrine of St. Landry.

The preliminary investigation revealed Vidrine was driving a 2007 Chevrolet Impala north on LA 115. At the same time, a 2013 Freightliner logging truck, being driven by 52-year-old Gregory Campanella, was traveling north on LA 115 after having just entered the roadway from private property. Vidrine’s Impala struck the rear of the logging truck in the northbound lane of travel.

Vidrine was not restrained and suffered fatal injuries. She was pronounced dead at the scene by the Evangeline Parish Coroner’s Office. Campanella was restrained and was not injured.

Toxicology sample from Vidrine have been submitted to the Louisiana State Police Crime Lab for analysis. Campanella submitted a breath sample indicating no alcohol in his system and had no signs of impairment. He was cited for La R.S. 32:124 failure to yield from private property. This crash remains under investigation.

Louisiana State Police would like to remind motorist to never drive while impaired, fatigued, or distracted, and always ensure every occupant is properly restrained. Taking simple precautions such as these can often mean the difference between life and death.

Troop I has investigated 41 fatal crashes resulting in 46 deaths since the beginning of 2022.