State Police investigators have determined, through extensive reconstruction of this crash which occurred on September 6, 2009, that Deven Newton, the driver of the 2005 Infinity, was traveling approximately 40 mph above the posted speed limit when Dorothy Smith attempted to make a left turn as he approached. Due to his excessive speed at the time of the crash, Newton has been charged with Negligent Homicide and Reckless Operation of a Motor Vehicle. He was arrested at his place of employment on Thursday, December 17, 2009 and booked into the East Baton Rouge Parish Prison.

Here is the original press release from the accident, courtesy of Louisiana State Police:

September 6, 2009

BATON ROUGE – A two-vehicle crash on Jefferson Highway west of US 61 in East Baton Rouge Parish claimed the life of a Baton Rouge woman shortly after noon today. Dorothy T. Smith, (W/F, age 82) of Baton Rouge was driving a 1999 Mercury Tracer west on LA 73 when she turned left into the oncoming path of a 2005 4-door Infinity, being driven by Deven Newton (W/M, age 21) of Baton Rouge. Newton was unable to avoid striking the right rear of Smith’s vehicle. After impact, the Mercury spun clockwise in the roadway and Smith was ejected from the vehicle. The East Baton Rouge Parish Coroner’s office pronounced Smith deceased on the scene. Newton was properly restrained when the crash occurred and only sustained minor injuries.

Alcohol is not suspected to have been a factor in this crash. However, Troopers have submitted blood samples of both drivers to the Louisiana State Police Crime Lab for chemical analysis. This crash is still under investigation, and charges may be forthcoming.

Contact Information:
Tpr Russell G. Graham II
Public Affairs Unit
Louisiana State Police – Troop A
Office: (225) 754-8524
russell.graham@dps.la.gov
www.LSP.org