**Rodney Michel Identified as Victim in Fatal Motorcycle Crash in St. Amant**
A tragic two-vehicle accident on the morning of October 25, 2024, claimed the life of Rodney Michel, a 51-year-old motorcyclist from Saint Amant, Louisiana. Troopers from Louisiana State Police Troop A responded to the scene of the crash shortly after 10:30 a.m., which took place on LA 935, just east of LA 431 in Ascension Parish.
According to the preliminary investigation, Michel was riding westbound on LA 935 on his 2016 Harley-Davidson motorcycle at a high rate of speed when he lost control of the vehicle. After being ejected from the motorcycle, Michel landed in the eastbound lanes, where he was struck by an oncoming 2002 Ford F-250 pickup truck. Tragically, Michel was pronounced dead at the scene.
Officials noted that Michel was not wearing a DOT-approved helmet at the time of the crash. The driver of the Ford truck, who was properly restrained, was uninjured. Although impairment is not suspected to have contributed to the accident, standard toxicology tests will be conducted as part of the ongoing investigation.
This incident serves as a somber reminder of the importance of road safety and the protective measures riders and drivers alike can take to reduce the risk of serious injuries. The Louisiana State Police continues to investigate the cause of the crash and urges drivers to exercise caution on the roads.
