Identified Victims in Tragic Lafayette Collision

Three individuals lost their lives and another person was injured in a three-vehicle collision early Tuesday morning on Johnston Street, as reported by the Lafayette Police Department. The accident happened just past 5 a.m. in the vicinity of the 6800 block of Johnston Street. According to authorities, a speeding vehicle on E. Broussard Road crashed into a second vehicle, which then hit a third vehicle. The initial car went on to collide with a wooden utility pole. Emergency responders quickly arrived on the scene, leading to a temporary closure of a portion of Johnston Street for several hours as investigators worked to gather evidence and the utility company attended to the damaged pole. A nearby resident, Emanuel Marone, recalled hearing the wail of sirens at the early hour. Meanwhile, police confirmed three fatalities, with a fourth individual sustaining moderate injuries and being hospitalized in stable condition. Authorities are yet to determine if thick fog in the area played a role in the crash, awaiting input from traffic investigators. Sgt. Robin Green of the Lafayette Police Department emphasized caution for drivers, especially during adverse weather situations, urging reduced speed and heightened awareness of surroundings. The community, including Marone, expressed deep sorrow over the tragic incident as they grapple with the devastating loss. The victims of the crash were identified as Cherita Washington, 36, and her 17-year-old daughter, Chase Washington, from Duson, who were passengers in the second vehicle, along with the first vehicle's driver, 21-year-old Joseph Prejean from Lafayette. Chase Washington was a student at Lafayette High School, and the Lafayette Parish School System is offering additional counseling support on campus for students and staff affected by the tragedy. The Lafayette Police Department's Traffic Unit is conducting a thorough investigation into the accident.