05/24/2026
TROOP L NEWS RELEASE
May 23, 2026
Lack of Proper Child Restraint, Seatbelt, and Impairment Contribute to Two Fatal Crashes in Tangipahoa Parish
Tickfaw – On May 22, 2026, at 11:50 p.m., Troopers with Louisiana State Police Troop L responded to a single vehicle crash on US Highway 51 just south of LA Highway 1064 in Tangipahoa Parish. The crash claimed the life of 6 month old Kaybri Robinson of Hammond.
The preliminary investigation revealed that a 2013 Hyundai Elantra, driven by 25 year old Resjyne N. Griffin of Hammond, was traveling north on US Highway 51 approaching LA Highway 1064. For reasons still under investigation, the Hyundai ran off the roadway to the right into a ditch and struck a culvert.
Griffin, who was unrestrained, sustained moderate injuries. Two unrestrained minor passengers in the vehicle were also injured. A 5 year old was transported to a local hospital with moderate injuries, and Robinson was transported to a local hospital where she died.
During the investigation, Griffin showed signs of impairment, was subsequently arrested, and transported to a local hospital for treatment. Upon her release from the hospital, Griffin will be booked into the Tangipahoa Parish Correctional Facility for Vehicular Homicide, Vehicular Negligent Injury, No Child Restraint, Careless Operation, Open Container, and No Driver’s License. As part of the ongoing investigation, routine toxicology samples were collected for analysis. This crash remains under investigation.
Amite – On May 23, 2026, at 1:30 a.m., Troopers with Louisiana State Police Troop L began investigating a multi vehicle fatality crash on LA Highway 16 at D***s Lane in Tangipahoa Parish. The crash claimed the life of 22 year old Janya T. D. Butler of the Town of Tangipahoa.
The preliminary investigation revealed that a 2026 Kia K4, driven by Butler, was traveling east on LA Highway 16 approaching D***s Lane. At the same time, a 2013 Ford F-150 and a 2020 Chevrolet Silverado, driven by 48-year-old Franklin B. Turnage of Mount Olive, Mississippi, were traveling west on LA Highway 16. For reasons still under investigation, the Kia crossed the centerline and struck the front bumper of the Ford. The Kia came to rest in the westbound lane, and the Ford ran off the right side of the roadway. The Chevrolet was unable to avoid a collision and struck the passenger side of the Kia.
Butler, who was unrestrained, sustained serious injuries and died on scene. The driver of the Ford was properly restrained and uninjured. Turnage, who was unrestrained, sustained minor injuries.
During the investigation, Turnage showed signs of impairment and was subsequently arrested. He was booked into the Tangipahoa Parish Correctional Facility for Driving While Intoxicated (First Offense), Driving While Suspended, and No Seatbelt. As part of the ongoing investigation, routine toxicology samples were obtained from all drivers for analysis.
The Louisiana State Police urge motorists to follow traffic laws, avoid driving while impaired, fatigued, or distracted, and always ensure all occupants are properly restrained. Properly wearing a seat belt dramatically reduces the risk of injury or death in a crash. Louisiana law requires everyone in a vehicle, regardless of seating position, to be buckled up at all times. Seat belts save lives, and taking this simple step can make the difference between life and death. Child safety seats provide crucial protection for children in crashes, but many are not installed correctly. If you’re unsure about your child’s seat or its installation, visit your nearest Louisiana State Police Troop or check the Louisiana Highway Safety Commission for the nearest fitting station. Ensuring proper use of car seats and booster seats helps save lives and prevent injuries. If you witness hazardous driving, dial *LSP (*577).
Contact Information:
Trooper Marc Gremillion
Louisiana State Police
Public Affairs Section – Troop L
[email protected]
