Eyewitness Describes Close Call in the Tragic Johnston Street Crash

In an update to the fatal traffic accident that occurred on December 26, 2023, in the 2900 block of Johnston Street, a new eyewitness account has shed light on the moments leading up to the crash, highlighting how the incident could have easily resulted in even more people being hurt, or worse.

A local woman, who witnessed the accident, described a chilling scene off Bertrand and South College. She recalled hearing a loud noise, initially thinking it was a separate accident on Johnston Street. To her horror, she saw a truck veering dangerously close to where another individual, identified only as Chris, was parked.

In a moment filled with panic and fear, the woman started screaming, fearing the truck would collide head-on with Chris and a nearby pedestrian, a lady walking her dog. Miraculously, by what the eyewitness described as "the grace of God," the truck narrowly missed hitting them, weaving through the palm trees at the drive-thru before coming to a stop.

The driver of the truck, later identified as 59-year-old Gerald L. Landry Jr. from Youngsville, appeared to be having a medical emergency, according to the witness. His eyes were closed, and his head was back, indicating he might have been unconscious during the crash.

The eyewitness's scream, as it turned out, may have saved the pedestrian with the dog. Alerted by the sound, she ran in the opposite direction, away from the path of the oncoming truck. This quick reaction likely spared her from being directly in the crash's path.

Paramedics arrived within minutes to attend to the unresponsive Mr. Landry, who was then rushed to Lafayette General Medical Center. Despite their efforts, he was pronounced deceased at the hospital.

This eyewitness account paints a broader picture as to what led to the unfortunate tragedy; and as the community offers condolences and heartfelt thoughts to the loved ones of Mr. Landry passing, we are also fortunate for the circumstances that prevented further harm.

As the investigation continues, the Lafayette Police Department is piecing together the events of that day. Our thoughts remain with all those affected by this tragic incident, including the eyewitnesses who experienced these traumatic moments firsthand.

We will continue to update this report as more information becomes available.