NEW ORLEANS, LA. (THECOUNT) — The New Orleans Police Department has arrested 53-year-old Erica Katsanis in connection with the death of Jefferson Parish deputy Christopher Ohlmeyer. Ohlmeyer was fatally struck while escorting a funeral procession on Airline Drive on Friday, Jan. 30, authorities said.
Katsanis was arrested Wednesday, Feb. 25, and booked on one count of vehicular homicide. According to the arrest affidavit, she tested positive for 11 drugs at the time of the crash, including amphetamine, clonazepam, aminoclonazepam, dextromethorphan, aripiprazole, bupropion, diphenhydramine, fluoxetine, methylphenidate, paroxetine, and quetiapine. Toxicology results indicated that the combination of these prescription drugs could “potentially cause impairment.” Most of the substances carried warning labels regarding side effects, safety precautions, and legal risks when operating a vehicle.
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While Katsanis’ attorney stated that she held legal prescriptions for the medications, the New Orleans Police Department emphasized the impairment factor. Investigators noted she showed signs of extreme fatigue and slurred speech following the incident, and vehicle data indicated she never applied the brakes before the collision.
Investigators said Katsanis “did not apply her vehicle brakes at any time during the crash.” The fatal collision occurred along a busy stretch of Airline Drive, a major north-south thoroughfare in New Orleans, which carries both local and through traffic. The crash site is a largely urban area with intersections, residential buildings, and limited street lighting, creating a high-risk environment for pedestrians and slow-moving vehicles during funeral processions.
Christopher Ohlmeyer, a deputy with Jefferson Parish, was escorting the funeral procession along the roadway when Katsanis’ vehicle struck him from behind. Witnesses reported seeing the line of vehicles moving along Airline Drive when the impact occurred. First responders arrived quickly, but Ohlmeyer was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities said the driver of the vehicle remained on-site until NOPD investigators located and arrested her days later.
Traffic Commander Captain Anthony Micheu praised the fatality reconstruction investigators for their work, saying they were “extremely diligent” in reviewing all available evidence. Investigators analyzed video footage, internal vehicle imaging, witness statements, and toxicology reports to determine probable cause for Katsanis’ arrest. The affidavit supporting her booking emphasizes the cumulative effect of multiple prescription drugs on her ability to operate a motor vehicle safely.
Vehicular homicide in Louisiana carries severe penalties, particularly when impairment is suspected. Drivers involved in fatal crashes are legally required to stop, render aid if possible, and notify law enforcement. Leaving the scene of a fatal accident can result in additional criminal charges, including fleeing the scene of an accident involving death.
The New Orleans Police Department continues to investigate the crash and urges anyone with additional information about Katsanis’ vehicle or the events surrounding the collision to contact the NOPD Traffic Fatality Unit at 504-658-6205. Authorities have not disclosed additional details about contributing factors such as speed, visibility, or road conditions at the time of the collision.
Airline Drive is a primary route for both local residents and commuters traveling through New Orleans. Funeral processions on the roadway pose unique risks, as they require drivers to navigate slow-moving vehicles and sudden stops. Fatal collisions involving law enforcement officers highlight the dangers faced during these escort duties and the consequences of impaired or distracted driving.
Investigators continue to collect evidence and review potential surveillance footage from nearby homes or businesses. The goal is to establish a complete timeline of the crash and ensure all circumstances leading to the fatal collision are documented. The case remains active as law enforcement works to determine all contributing factors and hold those responsible accountable.
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