State Troopers responded to a three-vehicle fatal crash on Interstate 12 westbound, east of O’Neal Lane, shortly after 8:00 pm last night. Preliminary investigation has revealed that the crash began when an eastbound vehicle crossed the median and struck a westbound vehicle head on. The eastbound vehicle, a 2008 Honda Accord, being driven by Michael Grimes (W/M, age 67) of Baton Rouge, crossed the median and struck a 2004 Nissan Maxima, being driven by Amber Prepotente (W/F, age 33) of Walker. Immediately after the collision, a westbound 2008 Ford Taurus, being driven by Shannon Moore (W/F, age 39) of Baton Rouge, collided with the Nissan. The Ford continued west after the collision along the north edge of the roadway until it struck a tree and came to rest. The Honda and the Nissan both came to rest blocking both westbound lanes.

All three drivers were properly restrained when the crash occurred and sustained non-life threatening injuries. The front seat passenger in the Nissan Maxima, Robert Sibley (W/M, age 38) of Walker, was not wearing a seat belt and died as a result of his injuries in the crash. There were three other minor passengers involved in the crash. All three minors sustained non-life threatening injuries and were transported to Baton Rouge General Hospital on Bluebonnet by Baton Rouge EMS.

Impairment is not suspected to have been a factor in the crash. However, Grimes and Prepotente both voluntarily submitted blood samples to Troopers for chemical testing to be performed by the Louisiana State Police Crime Lab. Moore voluntarily submitted a breath sample to the Intoxilyzer 5000, which showed that she had no detectable alcohol in her system. Troopers have charged Grimes with Careless Operation. Additional charges are pending the outcome of toxicology testing to be performed by the Louisiana State Police Crime Lab.

TFC Russell G. Graham II
Public Affairs Unit
Louisiana State Police – Troop A