Matthew Shields Obituary, Death – Louisiana State Police are examining two separate traffic incidents that occurred late Friday, November 21, both of which resulted in loss of life. Officials say the crashes happened several hours apart in Ascension Parish and East Baton Rouge Parish, prompting thorough investigations to understand exactly what led to each tragedy.
The first incident took place around 7:45 p.m. at the intersection of Highway 42 and Muddy Creek Road in Ascension Parish. According to troopers, 20-year-old Matthew Shields of Prairieville lost his life following a collision that involved the motorcycle he was riding and a pickup truck.
Early findings from the investigation indicate that Shields was traveling westbound on Highway 42 on his motorcycle, while a Ford F-150 was heading east. Authorities stated that the driver of the Ford attempted to make a left turn onto Muddy Creek Road. During the turn, the pickup reportedly moved into the path of the oncoming motorcycle, resulting in a crash.
Troopers confirmed that Shields was wearing protective headgear approved for road use. Despite that safety measure, he suffered severe injuries and was later pronounced deceased at a nearby hospital after being transported for medical care. Louisiana State Police identified the pickup truck driver as 45-year-old Danny Tabor Jr., also of Prairieville. Tabor did not sustain injuries in the crash.
Following their initial review of the situation, troopers reported that Tabor was taken into custody and faces several charges, including negligent homicide, driving with a suspended license, lacking proper insurance coverage, failure to yield during a turn, and operating a vehicle with an expired motor vehicle inspection. Authorities noted that additional information may be released as the case proceeds.
A second fatal crash occurred just after 11:45 p.m. the same night on Plank Road near Rolling Acres Drive in East Baton Rouge Parish. In this incident, a pedestrian lost their life after being struck by a vehicle.
Preliminary details shared by Louisiana State Police indicate that a Chevrolet Silverado was traveling north on Plank Road around the time of the crash. According to troopers, the pedestrian was also moving north along the roadway near the center line when the collision happened. Emergency responders arrived quickly, but the pedestrian was pronounced deceased at the scene.
Troopers have not yet released the name of the individual who died, explaining that authorities must first notify the person’s family. This process is standard and ensures loved ones receive news directly from officials before it becomes public.
Law enforcement stated that the driver of the Silverado remained at the scene and cooperated fully with responding officers. Early assessments indicate that impairment does not appear to have been a factor for that driver. However, as with all fatal crashes, investigators will continue to examine all aspects of the incident, including road conditions, visibility, and any additional contributing factors.
Both investigations remain open as Louisiana State Police work to gather all relevant information. These reviews typically include speaking with witnesses, analyzing roadway evidence, and evaluating the circumstances leading up to each crash. Officials emphasized that updates will be provided once more details are confirmed.
These two incidents have brought sadness to their respective communities, and officials encourage anyone who may have seen either crash or who has relevant information to reach out to Louisiana State Police. Their goal is to ensure each case is fully understood and that all findings are documented clearly and accurately.
As authorities continue their work, the community is keeping the families of those affected in their thoughts during this difficult time.
