Tickfaw, LA – A Mississippi woman has been arrested after a fatal crash on Interstate 55 in Tangipahoa Parish that claimed the life of a 26-year-old passenger, according to Louisiana State Police.
According to Louisiana State Police Troop L, troopers responded at approximately 11 p.m. on Friday, July 17, 2026, to a two-vehicle crash on southbound Interstate 55 near Louisiana Highway 442.
Investigators said a 2026 Kia Carnival, driven by 27-year-old Brianna L. Hutson of Magnolia, Mississippi, was traveling south when it left the roadway and struck the rear of a disabled 2009 Chevrolet Trailblazer that was parked on the right shoulder with its hazard lights activated.
Authorities said the Chevrolet’s driver and three passengers, all of whom were properly restrained, suffered minor injuries and were taken to a local hospital. Hutson and a front-seat passenger in the Kia also sustained minor injuries.
The crash claimed the life of 26-year-old Randall P. Belaire of St. Martinville, who was riding as an unrestrained rear-seat passenger in the Kia. He was pronounced dead at the scene, according to state police.
During the investigation, troopers said Hutson allegedly showed signs of impairment and was arrested after being medically cleared from a hospital. She was booked into the Tangipahoa Parish Correctional Facility on charges of Vehicular Homicide, five counts of Vehicular Negligent Injuring, Careless Operation, and Open Container.
Routine toxicology samples were collected for analysis, and the crash remains under investigation.
Louisiana State Police reminded motorists to never drive while impaired, always wear seat belts, avoid distractions, and report suspected impaired drivers by dialing *LSP (*577).
