Impaired Driver Charged in Death of Unrestrained Motorist

Acadia Parish - On January 9, 2025, Billy Kritzer was arrested on charges related to a fatality crash that claimed the life of 59-year-old Gilbert Price, Jr.

Following the crash, standard toxicology samples were collected from Kritzer for analysis, and the results revealed the presence of illegal narcotics in his system at the time of the crash. Upon receiving the results, Troopers obtained an arrest warrant and booked Kritzer into Acadia Parish Correctional Facility for Vehicular Homicide and Reckless Operation.

TROOP I NEWS RELEASE
November 19, 2024

Two-Vehicle Acadia Parish Crash Claims the Life of Rayne Man

Acadia Parish - On November 19, 2024, shortly after 10:00 a.m., Louisiana State Police Troop I began investigating a two-vehicle fatality crash on U.S. Highway 90 near Ebenezer Road. The crash claimed the life of 59-year-old Gilbert Price, Jr. of Rayne.

The preliminary investigation revealed that a 2002 Ford Escape, driven by Billy Kritzer of Youngsville, was traveling east on U.S. Hwy 90. At the same time, Price was driving a 2000 GMC Sonoma west. For reasons still under investigation, the Escape crossed the centerline into the westbound lane and struck the Sonoma head on.

Kritzer, who was restrained, sustained serious injuries and was transported to an area hospital for medical treatment. Price, who was not restrained, sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene.

Standard toxicology samples were collected from both drivers and submitted for analysis. This crash remains under investigation.

Troopers wish to remind motorists to always make good decisions while traveling. Never drive impaired, fatigued, or distracted, follow all traffic laws, and always ensure every occupant is properly restrained. While not all crashes are survivable, taking simple precautions such as these can often mean the difference between life and death.

Contact Information:
Trooper First Class Peggy Bourque
Louisiana State Police
Public Affairs Section - Troop I
Office: (337) 262-5880
[email protected]