State Police says a single vehicle crash on Sunday night in Richland Parish claimed the life of 14-year-old driver and several others were injured. Trooper Ryan Davis says 14 year old Suh’ renity Butler veered off the roadway and slammed into a tree.
“Our troopers on the scene determined that speed was indeed a factor in this crash. The driver Suh’ renity Butler, 14 years old from Rayville, unfortunately she succumbed to her injuries during the crash.”
Davis says Butler and four passengers in the vehicle, who were minors, were properly restrained. A toxicology sample is pending, however Davis says under the state’s statue, Butler was not of legal age to be behind the wheel of a vehicle.
“Louisiana State graduating license program you can’t be permitted until you’re 15 years old. Children 14 and below, they are not adequately equipped with attention span or life experiences to drive.”
Davis has a message for youth who may think about getting behind the wheel without training or a legal a permit.
“Do not start driving until you’re legal to do so. Also when operating a vehicle, always wear your seatbelt. Don’t drive impaired. And limit your distractions because distractions they lead to crashes.”
