St. Tammany Parish, LA (December 13, 2024) – A tragic crash early this morning claimed the life of 26-year-old Benjamin Bonura of Amite. The incident occurred at approximately 6:05 a.m. on LA Hwy 437 near Royal Pine Drive in St. Tammany Parish.
According to the Louisiana State Police Troop L, Bonura was working as a sanitation hopper on the rear of a 2020 International garbage truck, which had stopped southbound on LA Hwy 437. At the same time, a 2024 Hyundai Elantra was traveling southbound and, for reasons still under investigation, failed to stop in time. The Hyundai collided with the rear of the garbage truck and struck Bonura.
Bonura was transported to a local hospital but later succumbed to his injuries. The driver of the garbage truck, who was properly restrained, was uninjured. The driver of the Hyundai, also properly restrained, sustained moderate injuries and was taken to a hospital for treatment.
As part of the ongoing investigation, toxicology samples were obtained from both drivers for analysis. The cause of the crash remains under investigation.
We send our heartfelt sympathies to the family of the deceased individual.
Traffic Accidents in St. Tammany Parish
St. Tammany Parish, located in southeastern Louisiana, has a mix of rural and urban traffic, with roads like LA Hwy 437 frequently used by both local drivers and commercial vehicles. This accident highlights the importance of being cautious and aware when near stopped vehicles, especially on roads where trucks may be making deliveries or stopped for work.
The Louisiana State Police (LSP) emphasizes that rear-end collisions are often caused by distracted driving, failure to maintain proper speed, or not allowing enough stopping distance. In particular, when commercial or service vehicles are stopped on the side of the road, drivers are advised to slow down and exercise caution to avoid accidents.
For those impacted by fatal crashes, the road to recovery for victims’ families can be both emotionally and financially challenging. Understanding the legal steps for compensation and seeking professional assistance can provide support during this difficult time.
If you or someone you know has been involved in a traffic accident, Local Accident Reports is here to provide resources and guidance. Contact us today for support during this challenging time.