Community mourns young police officer and family killed in car accident

Louisiana State Police released new details Saturday about the accident that killed a young police officer and his family.

According to police, the car crash occurred shortly after 5 p.m. Friday. Louisiana State Police were notified of the accident on Louisiana Highway 13 near Bluefish Road in Lyons Point.

The crash killed 27-year-old Jovanta Fluegence, 26-year-old Amber Davy and 2-year-old Caroline Fluegence, all of Crowley.

According to Louisiana State Police, a 2003 Toyota 4Runner was traveling south on LA Highway 13 when the vehicle veered off the right side of the roadway. State police say the Toyota entered a ditch, struck a sewer line, was thrown through the air and flipped onto its roof.

The statement said all three occupants suffered fatal injuries and were pronounced dead at the scene. State police also reported that the occupants were not restrained and some were thrown from the vehicle.

Meanwhile, hundreds of messages of condolence for the families have been received on social media since the news of the death became public.

“It was definitely a tremendous tragedy. It's very sad to hear what happened to him and his family,” said Brian Mouton, a city councilor.

“Not only did he protect our community, but many people considered him a true friend,” Mouton added. “He was totally dedicated to his job; the young man rose through the ranks. All I can say is that I am praying for Detective Fluegence and his fiancée Amber.”

The Lafayette City Marshal’s Office commented on the deaths:

“Our hearts are heavy as we extend our deepest condolences to Chief Stelly, the Rayne Police Department, and the family and friends of Detective Javonta Flugence. The tragic loss of Detective Flugence, his fiancée Amber Davy, and their young daughter Caroline is deeply felt throughout our community. Marshal Reggie Thomas and the entire staff of the City of Lafayette Marshal's Office stand with you during this time of great sorrow. We pray for comfort and strength for all who are grieving this unimaginable loss.”

Scott Police also sent a message of condolence:

“Chief Chad Leger and officers of the Scott Police Department would like to extend their condolences to the families of Rayne Police Detective Javonta Fluegence, his fiancée Amber Davy and their daughter Caroline Fluegence. This young family lost their lives in a tragic accident and left behind a grieving community. The Scott Police Department supports the Rayne Police Department during this time of grief.”

Attorney General Liz Murrill issued a statement on the tragic deaths:

“Please join me in praying for the family, friends and colleagues of Detective Fluegence and his family, all of whom lost their lives in a tragic car accident. What an absolutely heartbreaking and devastating loss for the Rayne Police Department and the entire Acadia Parish community.”

An investigation is currently underway to determine who was behind the wheel at the time of the accident.