Tennessee man dies in collision

A 71-year-old Tennessee man was killed Friday afternoon on U.S. 90 near the Gibson exit when his van ran into the back of an eastbound 18-wheeler, state police reported.

A 2006 Chrysler van, driven by James Youree, of Nashville, Tenn., struck the back of the 18-wheeler at approximately 2:40 p.m. Both vehicles were traveling east, according to state police.

Herbert Davis Jr., 31, of Laplace, was driving the 18-wheeler.

Youree was airlifted by Acadian Ambulance Air Med to Thibodaux Regional Medical Center, police said He was the only occupant of the van.

Youree was later pronounced dead at the hospital.

Davis, who was also traveling alone, was not injured, police said. Both drivers were wearing safety belts, according to police reports.

Alcohol is not suspected to be a factor in the crash; however, in accordance with state law, blood will be drawn from Youree and tested at the state police crime lab.

Davis submitted to a voluntary breath test, the results of which were .000g percent, state police said.

Trooper Chris Celestin is continuing to investigate the crash. No charges are pending.