Hammond Woman Killed in Tangipahoa Parish Crash

Ponchatoula - On January 22, 2025, at approximately 8:10 p.m., Troopers with Louisiana State Police Troop L responded to a two-vehicle crash on LA Hwy 22 near Edwards Road in Tangipahoa Parish. The crash claimed the life of 65-year-old Peggy J. Williams of Hammond.

The preliminary investigation revealed that Williams was driving a 2004 Chevrolet Trailblazer eastbound on LA Hwy 22. At the same time, a 2011 Ford F-150, driven by Kody A. Lacour of Picayune, Mississippi, was traveling westbound on LA Hwy 22. For reasons still under investigation, the Chevrolet crossed the centerline and struck the Ford head-on. Road conditions were impacted by a winter storm at the time, which investigators will consider as a possible contributing factor.

Williams, who was unrestrained, sustained critical injuries and was transported to a local hospital for treatment. She later succumbed to her injuries at the hospital. The driver of the Ford, also unrestrained, suffered minor injuries and declined medical treatment.

During the investigation, Troopers determined that Lacour was impaired at the time of the crash. He was arrested and booked into the Tangipahoa Parish Jail for First Offense DWI and Obstruction of a Court Order. This crash remains under investigation.

Troopers urge the public to remember: if you don't need to drive, stay home and stay safe. Never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs, as impairment can significantly reduce your ability to react to dangers on the road. Troopers and emergency responders are doing everything possible to keep our residents safe, but we need your help. Troopers also want to remind motorists that Louisiana law requires everyone in a vehicle to wear a seat belt. While not all crashes are survivable, this simple precaution can save lives.

Contact Information:
Trooper Marc Gremillion
Louisiana State Police
Public Affairs Section - Troop L
Phone: (225) 877-8417
[email protected]