NEW ORLEANS, LA — A devastating crash in New Orleans East early Sunday morning claimed the lives of two motorcyclists and left two others hospitalized with serious injuries. The New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) confirmed that the accident occurred shortly after midnight on Almonaster Avenue, between Jourdan Road and Elaine Street.
Authorities say a speeding car, driven by 22-year-old Joshua Stevens, crashed into a group of motorcyclists who were stopped on the roadway. The impact of the collision proved fatal for two riders — 39-year-old Jeffrey Watts and 30-year-old Summer Gaudet — who were both pronounced dead at the scene by emergency responders.
Two additional motorcyclists were seriously hurt in the crash and were transported to a local trauma unit for treatment. As of Monday, their conditions remain unknown, and they continue to receive medical care. The identities of the injured individuals have not yet been released.
Police arrested Stevens at the scene and charged him with multiple offenses, including vehicular homicide and vehicular negligent injuring. According to officials, Stevens was driving at a high speed when the crash occurred. His bond has been set at $150,000. Investigators are still working to determine if other factors, such as alcohol or distraction, played a role in the collision.
The crash has left a deep impact on the local community, especially among fellow motorcyclists and the families of the victims. Both Watts and Gaudet are being remembered by loved ones as passionate riders and caring individuals whose lives ended far too soon. The tragedy has renewed calls for safer driving practices across the city.
Excessive speed continues to be a leading cause of deadly accidents, and safety advocates are once again urging drivers to slow down, especially at night and in areas where motorcycles or pedestrians may be present. This crash serves as a painful reminder of the risks faced by motorcyclists every day.
As the investigation continues, police are gathering evidence, reviewing surveillance footage, and interviewing witnesses. Additional charges may be filed depending on what the investigation uncovers. Meanwhile, the families of the victims are left mourning and calling for justice, while the injured fight to recover in the hospital.
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