Vermillion crash kills motorcyclist

A motorcyclist was killed when his bike was hit from behind on U.S. 167 on Thursday afternoon.
State Police said the accident happened about 3 p.m. near Placide Road in Vermilion Parish. The crash claimed the life of Carl Johnson, 51, of Abbeville.
The initial investigation by State Police revealed a 2002 Yamaha motorcycle and a 2013 Dodge Charger were both traveling northbound on US 167. Johnson was operating the motorcycle in the right lane and the Charger was in the left lane. As the two vehicles approached a median crossover, Johnson entered the left lane in the path of the Charger and began slowing down quickly. The front of the Charger struck the rear of Johnson’s motorcycle, ejecting him from the motorcycle.
Johnson suffered severe injuries and was taken to a local hospital by Air Med where he later died as a result of his injuries. The two occupants of the Dodge Charger were wearing seat belts and received minor injuries. Both were transported to a local hospital by Acadian Ambulance.
Johnson was wearing a DOT-approved helmet.
Troopers are continuing the investigation into who was driving the Dodge Charger. Troopers are speaking with witnesses and looking at all evidence collected in the investigation. This case remains under investigation and charges could be filed at a later date.
Anyone who may have witnessed this crash is urged to call Louisiana State Police Troop I at (337) 262-5880
It is unknown if impairment is a contributing factor in the crash. Toxicology samples were taken from Johnson and an occupant from the Dodge Charger. The samples were submitted to the Louisiana State Police Crime Lab for further analysis.