LAFAYETTE PARISH, La. – A fatal crash involving a motorcycle and a passenger vehicle claimed the life of a Thibodaux man early Wednesday morning. The collision occurred on Louisiana Highway 339 near Simon Road and remains under investigation by Louisiana State Police. Authorities identified the victim as 42-year-old Dustin Ayo, who was operating a 2025 Suzuki motorcycle.
Preliminary findings indicate Ayo was traveling southbound at a high rate of speed when a 2013 Nissan Sentra, traveling northbound, attempted to make a left turn onto Simon Road. The Nissan entered Ayo’s path, resulting in a violent crash. The motorcycle struck the passenger side of the Nissan with significant force. Emergency responders arrived at the scene and found Ayo unresponsive. Despite efforts from paramedics, he was pronounced dead at the scene due to the severity of his injuries.
The driver of the Nissan sustained moderate injuries and was transported to a nearby hospital. Their identity has not yet been released. As part of the ongoing investigation, routine toxicology samples were collected from both Ayo and the driver of the Nissan. Those samples have been submitted to the state crime lab for analysis to determine whether impairment played a role in the crash. Authorities have not yet released any findings or issued charges.
The crash brought traffic to a halt for several hours while state troopers documented the scene and cleared the roadway. Officials highlighted the risks that come with high speeds and the challenges of navigating rural intersections, which are often less visible and more dangerous, particularly for motorcyclists.
This incident adds to a growing number of motorcycle-related fatalities in Louisiana this year. With warmer weather drawing more riders to the roads, traffic safety advocates are urging both drivers and motorcyclists to remain alert, obey traffic laws, and approach intersections with caution. The Louisiana State Police is also asking anyone who may have witnessed the crash or has information to contact Troop I to aid in the investigation.
As the community mourns the loss of Dustin Ayo, authorities continue working to determine the exact circumstances of the collision and whether further action will be taken based on the evidence gathered.