Lafayette, LA (March 6, 2025) – A Lafayette family of four remains hospitalized after a severe crash on I-10 near Iowa, Louisiana. The community gathered Wednesday night at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Milton to pray for their recovery.
The crash occurred when the Fontenot family’s pickup truck was rear-ended by a dump truck and pushed into an 18-wheeler, causing devastating injuries. Joshua Fontenot, a Lafayette Parish School System employee and former Southside High School head football coach, suffered serious injuries along with his wife, Laurie, and their two children.
Emergency responders were quick to the scene, providing care to the injured victims. Laurie Fontenot remains in critical condition after being airlifted to a hospital in Baton Rouge. Joshua and their children are being treated at a hospital in Lafayette.
The community has rallied around the family, offering prayers and support in the hopes of their full recovery. Authorities are continuing to investigate the crash.
Our thoughts are with the Fontenot family and all those affected by this heartbreaking accident.
Multi-Vehicle Crashes in Louisiana
Crashes involving multiple large vehicles, such as dump trucks and 18-wheelers, often result in severe or life-threatening injuries. The force of impact in rear-end collisions involving heavy trucks can be devastating, especially on high-speed roadways like I-10.
In Louisiana, crashes of this nature are frequently linked to factors such as driver fatigue, distracted driving, or following too closely. When negligence plays a role in a serious accident, victims may have the right to seek compensation for medical bills, rehabilitation costs, lost income, and pain and suffering.
For families impacted by serious highway accidents, understanding their legal options is crucial. Seeking professional assistance can help ensure they receive the necessary support during recovery.
If you or someone you know has been injured in a crash, contact Local Accident Reports for assistance.