Donald P. Gremillion, Gerrilynn Gremillion Obituary, Death – A tragic two-vehicle crash in Iberia Parish has claimed the lives of two Abbeville residents, and authorities are continuing their investigation into the cause of the incident.
The Iberia Parish Sheriff’s Office reported that the fatal collision occurred at the intersection of Rip Van Winkle Road and Louisiana Highway 675. According to the initial findings of the investigation, the crash happened when a 2012 Nissan Cube, traveling eastbound on Rip Van Winkle Road, reportedly failed to obey a stop sign at the intersection. As a result, the vehicle entered the path of a 2020 Ford F-150 that was heading south on LA Highway 675, leading to a violent collision between the two vehicles.
Deputies identified the occupants of the Nissan Cube as Donald P. Gremillion and Gerrilynn Gremillion, both 69 years old and residents of Abbeville. Tragically, both individuals were pronounced dead at the scene due to the severity of their injuries. No additional passengers were reported in the Nissan.
The individuals in the Ford F-150 escaped the crash without any physical injuries, according to deputies. The extent of the damage to the truck has not been disclosed, but the driver was said to be cooperating fully with the investigation.
In an effort to determine whether alcohol or other substances may have played a role in the accident, toxicology samples were taken from Donald Gremillion, the driver of the Nissan Cube. These samples have been sent to the appropriate laboratory for analysis, and results are pending. Authorities emphasized that this is a routine procedure in fatal collisions as they work to establish a clear understanding of the events leading up to the crash.
The driver of the Ford F-150 voluntarily submitted to a breathalyzer test at the scene, which showed no presence of alcohol in their system, deputies said. Investigators have not indicated any suspicion of impairment on the part of the Ford driver at this time.
Authorities have not yet disclosed why Donald Gremillion may have failed to stop at the intersection’s stop sign. Factors such as possible distraction, a medical event, mechanical failure, or visibility issues are all being considered as potential contributors. No witnesses have come forward yet to provide additional insight, but deputies continue to gather information as the investigation progresses.
The Iberia Parish Sheriff’s Office confirmed that the investigation remains active and ongoing. Officials noted that intersections without traffic signals, especially those in rural areas, often require drivers to be particularly vigilant due to limited visibility or fast-moving cross traffic.
Deputies have not stated whether speed was a factor in the collision, nor have they indicated the presence of skid marks or any attempt at evasive action from either vehicle prior to impact. The crash scene was reportedly closed to traffic for several hours as emergency responders secured the area and conducted their investigation. Both vehicles were towed from the scene for further inspection as part of the evidence collection process.
The loss of Donald and Gerrilynn Gremillion has deeply impacted the Abbeville community. The couple, both 69 years old, were longtime residents and well-known in the area. Family members, friends, and neighbors are mourning their sudden and unexpected deaths. No funeral arrangements have been announced at this time, but tributes are expected in the coming days.
Law enforcement officials have urged anyone with additional information about the crash to contact the Iberia Parish Sheriff’s Office. They are particularly interested in speaking with anyone who may have been in the area at the time of the incident or who may have noticed either vehicle in the moments leading up to the collision.
This crash adds to a concerning trend of fatal accidents occurring at intersections in Louisiana’s rural parishes, where road signage and driver awareness remain critical to ensuring safety. Authorities often stress the importance of adhering to posted traffic signals and stop signs, particularly at rural intersections where cross traffic can be less visible.
Officials also reminded the public that driver attentiveness, proper vehicle maintenance, and compliance with traffic regulations are key to preventing similar tragedies. Even a momentary lapse in concentration can have devastating consequences.
As the investigation continues, the Iberia Parish Sheriff’s Office has promised to release more details as they become available. Until then, the community mourns the loss of two of its own while awaiting answers about what led to this heartbreaking event.
