LSP arrests alleged drunk driver in St. Helena crash that killed dispatcher

ST. HELENA PARISH, La. (WAFB) - Louisiana State Police arrested a Denham Springs man on Saturday, June 11, in connection with a deadly head-on collision that claimed the life of a 911 dispatcher back in April.

Nicholas Carter, 28, was booked into St. Helena Parish Jail on charges of vehicular homicide, operating while intoxicated (third offense), operating a vehicle while license is suspended, failure to drive on the right side of the road, and speeding.

According to LSP, the deadly crash happened on LA 16 near Calmes Road in St. Helena Parish around 6:15 a.m. on Saturday, April 16.

LSP identified the crash’s victim as Grace Chandler, 45, of Amite City.

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State police said a vehicle driven by Carter crossed the center line and collided head-on with the vehicle driven by Chandler.

Toxicology samples collected from Carter revealed a blood alcohol concentration over the legal limit, according to LSP.

Even though Chandler was properly restrained, she died at the scene from her injuries, according to investigators.

Troopers said Carter was taken to the hospital with serious injuries.

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