Rayne Police Seeking Truck Driver In Fatal Crash That Killed Beloved DJ

Lafayette and South Louisiana are mourning the loss of one of their own after a tragic crash on I-10 claimed the life of local DJ Jeremy Thomas, known to many as DJ Sausage. The Rayne Police Department is now asking for the public’s help to locate the driver of a semi-truck believed to have been involved in the fatal collision early Sunday morning.

According to police, the crash happened around 3:25 a.m. on Sunday (Oct. 5), just before the Rayne exit. Investigators say Thomas was driving a red 2022 Chevrolet pickup westbound when he struck the rear of a parked red 2021 Volvo semi-truck with a white trailer. The truck, leased to Level Up Express LLC, was abandoned on the shoulder of the interstate. Officers say the truck’s driver was not present at the scene when first responders arrived.

Authorities are asking anyone with information about the truck or its driver to contact the Rayne Police Department immediately.

A Community In Mourning

In the days since his passing, social media has filled with tributes from across Acadiana’s tight-knit entertainment community.

Thomas, remembered for his infectious energy and kind spirit, was a fixture at local venues like Rooftop 116 in Downtown Lafayette, where he often DJ’d brunches, private events, and festivals.

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“All-around good dude — that was DJ Sausage,” wrote DJ Troy D in a heartfelt post on Facebook. “Your legacy is here forever, man. We will all unite and forever fly your flag.”

The team at Rooftop 116 also released a statement, closing their doors for the day to mourn the loss of their friend and colleague. “Jeremy was not only an exceptionally talented DJ but also an extraordinary human being who touched the lives of everyone around him,” they wrote.

Other local DJs, including DJ Big Sam and DJ Dolby D, shared similar sentiments, calling Thomas a “father, friend, coach, and all-around good person” whose loss has left a hole in the community.

Calls For Justice

On the Rayne Police Department’s Facebook page, hundreds of comments poured in from family, friends, and supporters demanding answers. One commenter, identifying herself as Thomas’ niece, wrote, “#JusticeForMyUncleSauce.” Another pleaded with police to “check the cameras” and “find the driver that left him on the side of the road.”

Several users even shared what they believed to be information about the trucking company, with many expressing frustration that the driver had not yet been found.

Rayne Police say the investigation remains active and are urging anyone with dashcam footage or knowledge of the red Volvo semi to come forward.

Remembering “DJ Sausage”

Known across Acadiana’s nightlife scene, Thomas was the type of person who could make anyone smile — a performer who turned every event into a celebration. Friends say his passion for music and community will never be forgotten.

As Southern Tea Magazine wrote in their tribute, “His impact was significant, and he will be remembered fondly. Rest in power, King.”