Breaux Bridge, LA (August 4, 2025) – A devastating crash on Interstate 10 East near the Louisiana Highway 328 exit claimed the lives of two women Saturday evening. Louisiana State Police Troop I responded to the scene shortly after 5:00 p.m. on August 3, where they discovered a collision involving a vehicle on the shoulder and two pedestrians who had exited it.
According to troopers, 66-year-old Cynthia Dinet of Gretna and 68-year-old Elisa Lightell of Maurice were standing near a 2019 Ford Escape that had pulled off onto the right shoulder of the interstate. As they stood outside the vehicle, a 2013 Lexus GX460 traveling eastbound in the right lane approached the area amid traffic congestion. For reasons still under investigation, the Lexus veered off the roadway onto the shoulder—slamming into the rear of the parked Ford and striking both women.
Dinet and Lightell suffered fatal injuries and were pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the Lexus, who was not wearing a seatbelt, sustained moderate injuries and was transported to a local hospital for treatment. Their identity has not been released.
Toxicology samples were collected from all involved parties as part of the ongoing investigation. Louisiana State Police continue to examine the sequence of events and contributing factors that led to the deadly crash.
We extend our deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of Cynthia Dinet and Elisa Lightell during this incredibly painful time.
Roadside Tragedies and Pedestrian Safety on Louisiana Highways
Saturday’s fatal crash on I-10 near Breaux Bridge underscores the extreme risks faced by individuals who find themselves on or near the shoulder of a high-speed interstate. Whether due to mechanical failure, emergency stops, or other reasons, roadside incidents often become deadly when drivers fail to remain attentive or drift outside designated travel lanes.
In this case, traffic congestion may have played a role in the driver’s decision to veer onto the shoulder. However, it’s a stark reminder that shoulders are never intended for active travel or passing maneuvers. Troopers have emphasized that distracted and inattentive driving remain among the top contributors to fatal crashes across Louisiana.
Pedestrians struck on the shoulder rarely survive the impact, especially when hit at highway speeds. The loss of two lives—Cynthia Dinet and Elisa Lightell—highlights the urgency of improving both driver awareness and response in traffic-dense situations. It also illustrates the importance of using hazard lights, remaining inside disabled vehicles when safe, and exercising extreme caution when exiting near traffic.
The aftermath of such a tragedy is immense for the families involved. From the emotional trauma to the logistical burden of investigations, autopsies, and legal inquiries, survivors often need support in many forms. Understanding the process, accessing documentation, and receiving appropriate legal guidance are essential steps in seeking answers and justice.
If you’ve lost a loved one in a roadside collision or suffered injuries as a pedestrian on Louisiana roadways, Local Accident Reports is here to support you. We help connect families to trusted legal resources, assist in accessing official crash reports, and guide you through the difficult aftermath of a tragic loss. Contact us today for caring, informed help when it matters most.
