2 Year-Old Killed in St. Tammany Parish Crash

Covington – Shortly before 11:50 a.m., Troopers from Louisiana State Police Troop L responded to a single-vehicle crash on Interstate 12, west of the LA Hwy 59 exit in St. Tammany Parish. The crash tragically claimed the life of 2-year-old Preston Ordone of Slidell.

The preliminary investigation indicates that a 2011 Ford F-150 was traveling eastbound on I-12 when, for reasons still under investigation, the vehicle veered off the roadway to the right and struck a tree.

The driver and front passenger, who were both properly restrained, sustained serious injuries and were transported to a local hospital. Preston, who was seated in the rear, but improperly restrained in a child safety seat, also sustained serious injuries and was transported to the hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries. As part of the ongoing investigation, a routine toxicology sample was collected from the driver for analysis.

Louisiana State Police stress that proper restraint use significantly reduces the risk of serious injury or death in a crash. Louisiana law requires all occupants, regardless of seating position, to be properly restrained at all times. The proper use of seat belts and child safety seats can be the difference between life and death. Parents and caregivers who are unsure about their child’s car seat installation are encouraged to visit any Louisiana State Police Troop or contact the Louisiana Highway Safety Commission to locate the nearest fitting station. Ensuring correct installation and usage of car seats and booster seats is critical to preventing injuries and saving lives.

Louisiana State Police urge all motorists to drive responsibly, obey traffic laws, and avoid driving while impaired, fatigued, or distracted. Always ensure every occupant in the vehicle is properly restrained. To report hazardous driving, dial *LSP (*577).