Lake Charles man killed in crash north of Erath

Early Monday, shortly before 12:25 a.m., Louisiana State Police, Troop I responded to a fatal crash on LA Highway 339 near Reno Road in Vermilion Parish. The crash claimed the life of 30-year-old Hoang Nguyen of Lake Charles.
The preliminary investigation revealed that 31-year-old Martin Nguyen of Lafayette was driving a 2016 Chevrolet Corvette southbound on LA 339 at a high rate of speed. Martin Nguyen was unable to negotiate a curve and ran off of the right side of the roadway. The Corvette began to flip, partially ejecting the passenger, Hoang Nguyen.
Hoang Nguyen was not wearing a seat belt and sustained fatal injuries. He was pronounced dead on scene by the Vermilion Parish Coroner’s Office. The driver, Martin Nguyen, was properly restrained and sustained moderate injuries. He was transported to a local hospital for treatment.
Impairment and speed are suspected factors in the crash. Toxicology samples were taken from Martin Nguyen and were submitted to the Louisiana State Police Crime Lab for analysis.
This crash remains under investigation and charges are pending.
Louisiana State Troopers wish to remind motorists that impaired driving continues to be a major problem throughout Louisiana. Whether impaired through alcohol, drugs, or a combination of the two, the consequences of driving while impaired remain the same. Making good choices while in motor vehicles such as never driving while impaired, always ensuring every occupant is properly restrained, and avoiding all distractions can often mean the difference between life and death.