2-year-old child dies, 3 injured in St. Landry Parish wreck

A 2-year-old child was killed and three others were injured in a crash that occurred at about 10 a.m. Sunday on La. 754 near Alton Road in St. Landry Parish, a news release from Louisiana State Police Troop I reported.
Two juveniles injured in the wreck were taken to local hospitals.
The 2-year-old, who was seated in the rear of the 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer in a child passenger safety seat, suffered severe injuries and taken to Opelousas General Hospital, the news release stated. The child was pronounced dead shortly after arriving at the hospital, police said.
The police investigation indicated that Shaparia Citizen, 33, of Church Point, was traveling east on La. 754 and entered a right curve and then ran off the right side of the road, traveled through a ditch, up an embankment and struck several trees.
Citizen and the two juveniles had minor injuries. Citizen refused medical care at the scene, the news release stated.
Troopers determined Citizen was not impaired at the time of the crash, the news release stated. However, blood samples were obtained and will be submitted to the Louisiana State Police Crime Lab for analysis,
Distractions continue to cause motor vehicle crashes throughout the Acadiana area. Troopers urge motorist to pay attention on the roadway. Cellphone use, radios and passengers are just a few of the major distractions facing drivers. Remember, before putting a vehicle in drive, everyone inside of the vehicle must be properly restrained. If parents or caregivers are not sure on how to properly install a child safety seat, please contact your nearest State Police Troop. Louisiana State Police Troop I conducts child safety seats for proper installation every Wednesday from 8 a.m. until noon at Troop I, 121 E. Pont Des Mouton Lafayette.