Teenager is third death linked to crash on Evangeline Thruway

LAFAYETTE PARISH — The father of a Lafayette teenager who was killed in a multi-vehicle crash Friday morning says he is devastated by the loss of his son. Speaking to KATC days after the death, Justin Ogbauku said he was still processing what happened that fateful morning.

“I lost my best friend, I lost my sidekick, we went through a lot together,” Ogbauku said.

Justin's son, Hesus Ogbauku, 16, was killed when the car he was riding in was involved in a seven-vehicle crash on Mudd Avenue.

Justin considers his son a great kid and says he relies on his faith to keep him alive during these times.

“I stay strong…that’s what my kids expect from me,” Ogbauku said.

Hesus' death marks the third crash-related death on Evangeline Thruway for 2024, sparking calls for safety and awareness for drivers along Evangeline Thruway.

Richard Mouton is the owner of RPM Automotive. Three cars in its parking lot were hit, including one belonging to a customer. He says it's not the first time.

“I feel like this is one of the most dangerous thoroughfares in the state of Louisiana and maybe in America. We brought cars into houses. They really need to do something about the highway,” Mouton said.

The Mouton store has been hit several times over the years.

“I've had cars hit here eight or nine times since I opened. The building was actually hit four times, about a year ago, and it broke this steel pipe,” Mouton said.

The Évangéline highway continues to pose a traffic problem for residents. A spokesperson for the Lafayette Police Department said there have been 441 crashes on the highway this year.

According to the latest report, there have been 27 hit-and-runs, four major crashes and three fatal crashes on Evangeline Thruway this year.

“Many of these deaths occurred because people did not use crosswalks. A lot of times people don't obey traffic signals and turn on the lights,” said Sgt. Robin Green.

Police have not confirmed whether any charges will be laid in connection with the crash. An investigation is underway.