2 dead, one critical in Thibodaux crash

An early morning crash Thursday in north Thibodaux claimed the lives of two people and left on in critical condition, state police said.

According to authorities, Matthew Bernal, 24, of Edgard, was traveling north on La. Highway 308 when his 1998 Honda Accord crossed the centerline and struck a southbound vehicle head-on. The Lafourche Parish Coroner’s Office pronounced Bernal dead at the scene, state police said.

Acadian Ambulance transported Bernal’s passenger, Jennie Richeaux, 29, of Thibodaux, to Thibodaux Regional Hospital. Her injuries were critical, police said.

The southbound car, a 2003 Ford Taurus, was being driven by Jarvis Williams, 22, of Vacherie. He was treated at Thibodaux Regional for moderate injuries.

Williams was traveling with two passengers: brothers Joseph and David Harris. David Harris was pronounced dead at the scene, state police said. Joseph Harris’ minor injuries were treated at Thibodaux Regional.

State police said David Harris was the only occupant of either vehicle not wearing a seat belt.

Blood was drawn from both drivers to be analyzed at the Louisiana State Police Crime Lab for analysis. Police said it is unknown if alcohol- or drug-use contributed to the crash.

No charges have been filed, and the case is still under investigation.

According to Trooper Gilbert Dardar Jr., this is the first fatal crash in the region since June 18.