Chauvin – Shortly before 11:30 p.m. last night, Troop C began investigating a two-vehicle crash on LA 56 at the intersection of Prosperity Street. The crash claimed the life of 24-year-old Michael Turnage of Chauvin.
The preliminary investigation revealed Turnage was traveling southbound on LA 56 on a 1998 Honda Shadow motorcycle. As Turnage approached the intersection with Prosperity Street at a fast speed, he struck a 2002 Dodge Durango that was entering the intersection from Prosperity Street. The car was being driven by 31-year-old Rich Verdin of Chauvin. Turnage was not wearing a helmet and suffered fatal injuries from the crash. Verdin was not injured. Impairment is unknown on the part of Turnage and a standard toxicology test is pending through the Terrebonne Parish Coroner’s Office. Verdin provided a breath sample which showed no alcohol present. This crash remains under investigation.