ST. MARTIN PARISH, La. — The close-knit community of Breaux Bridge is reeling from the tragic loss of 16-year-old Da’Marion Lagrange, who died in a fatal collision involving an electric scooter on Louisiana Highway 347 in the early morning hours of Wednesday, July 23, 2025.
According to the Louisiana State Police Troop I, the accident occurred shortly after midnight on July 23, 2025, just south of Jolie Blonde Road in St. Martin Parish. Da’Marion was riding an electric scooter without lights, traveling north in the southbound lane of LA Hwy 347, against the flow of traffic. At the same time, a 2015 Chrysler 300, driven by an individual who was not injured, was traveling northbound and attempting to pass a slower vehicle in a designated passing zone. For reasons still under investigation, the Chrysler moved into the southbound lane and struck the scooter from behind.
Emergency responders arrived promptly after receiving 911 calls from passing motorists. Da’Marion, who was not wearing a helmet, was transported to a nearby hospital with serious injuries but succumbed to them shortly after. The driver of the Chrysler, who was properly restrained, remained at the scene and is cooperating fully with authorities. The driver voluntarily submitted a breath sample, which showed no alcohol, and a standard toxicology screening was also conducted. A toxicology sample was collected from Da’Marion for analysis, as is standard in fatal crash investigations.
**A Life Remembered**
Da’Marion Lagrange, a beloved member of the Breaux Bridge community, was a vibrant 16-year-old with a promising future. A student at Breaux Bridge High School, he was known for his warm personality, infectious smile, and passion for sports. Friends and teachers recall his kindness and energy, describing him as a young man who brightened the lives of those around him.
“He was the kind of kid who made everyone feel included,” shared a classmate. “It’s hard to believe he’s gone.”
The tragedy has sparked an outpouring of grief on social media, with friends and peers sharing memories and expressing disbelief. A candlelight vigil is being organized at a local park where Da’Marion often spent time with friends, and Breaux Bridge High School has made counselors available to support students and staff during this difficult time.
**Ongoing Investigation and Safety Concerns**
Louisiana State Police are continuing their investigation to determine the precise circumstances of the crash. Key factors under review include visibility conditions, the lack of lights on the scooter, and the dynamics of the vehicle’s passing maneuver. No citations or arrests have been issued as the investigation remains ongoing.
The incident has prompted renewed discussions about road safety, particularly regarding the use of electric scooters on highways. Louisiana law (LRS 32:300.1.1) requires electric scooter operators to ride in the direction of traffic, maintain at least one hand on the handlebars, and ensure scooters are equipped with functioning brakes and appropriate lighting for low-light conditions. Authorities are reminding the public of these regulations to prevent future tragedies.
“This is a heartbreaking reminder of how important it is to follow safety guidelines,” said a Louisiana State Police representative. “We are committed to a thorough investigation to provide clarity and closure for the family and community.”
**Community Support for the Lagrange Family**
In the wake of Da’Marion’s passing, the Breaux Bridge community has rallied around the Lagrange family. Neighbors have placed flowers, candles, and heartfelt notes near the crash site as a tribute. Local churches are offering support for funeral arrangements, and a GoFundMe campaign is in the works to help cover memorial costs.
“Da’Marion was a light in our community, and his loss leaves a void,” said a local resident. “We’re coming together to honor his memory and support his family through this pain.”
Funeral arrangements have not yet been announced, but the Lagrange family has requested privacy and prayers as they grieve. The Louisiana State Police encourage anyone with information, including dashcam or surveillance footage, to contact Troop I at (337) 262-5880.
This tragedy underscores the fragility of life and the importance of road safety, leaving a community united in mourning and determined to keep Da’Marion’s memory alive.
