Amite Man Arrested for Vehicular Homicide in Tangipahoa Parish

Amite - On January 25, 2025, at approximately 11:00 p.m., Troopers with Louisiana State Police Troop L responded to a two-vehicle crash on US Hwy 51 near Anderson Road in Tangipahoa Parish. The crash claimed the life of 82-year-old Wilbert Banks of Amite.

The preliminary investigation revealed that Banks was driving a 2000 Ford Ranger southbound on US Hwy 51. At the same time, a 2001 Nissan Frontier, driven by 34-year-old Broderick C. McKnight of Amite, was traveling northbound on US Hwy 51. For reasons still under investigation, the Nissan crossed the centerline and struck the Ford head-on.

McKnight, who was unrestrained, was seriously injured and transported to a local hospital. Two unrestrained passengers in the Nissan sustained moderate injuries and were also taken to the hospital for treatment. Banks, who was properly restrained, suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene.

During their investigation, Troopers determined that McKnight was impaired at the time of the crash. Toxicology samples were obtained from both McKnight and Banks for analysis. McKnight was arrested for L.R.S. 14:32.1 Vehicular Homicide, L.R.S. 32:71 Driving Left of Center, L.R.S. 32:415 Driving on a Suspended Driver's License, and L.R.S. 32:295.1 No Seatbelt. This crash remains under investigation.

Louisiana State Police remind all motorists of the dangers of impaired driving, which can have devastating consequences whether caused by alcohol, drugs, or a combination of the two. Motorists are urged to make responsible decisions, such as never driving while impaired, always ensuring that all occupants are properly restrained, and avoiding distractions while driving. These choices can often mean the difference between life and death.

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