PRESS RELEASE — Calcasieu Parish – On January 26, 2019, shortly after 9:30 a.m., a Trooper assigned to Louisiana State Police Troop D responded to a single-vehicle crash on LA Highway 397 south of US Highway 90.

The initial investigation revealed 47-year-old Matthew James Celestine of Lake Charles was driving a 2013 Chrysler sedan north on LA Hwy 397 when he crossed the center line, ran off the roadway, and struck a parked tanker trailer at a private residence. Obvious signs of impairment were observed and Celestine was arrested and transported to Troop D for processing.

Upon arrival at Troop D, Celestine refused to provide a toxicology sample. Details of the arrest were furnished to an on-call judge who approved a “no refusal” search warrant that allowed Troopers to obtain blood samples from Celestine without his consent.

Celestine was charged with DWI fourth offense, driving under suspension for prior offense, unlawful refusal to submit to chemical test, no ignition interlock device, improper lane use, and driving under suspension. He was booked into the Calcasieu Correctional Center.

Louisiana State Police will continue to arrest any motorist found to be operating a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. To report impaired drivers, motorists are urged to dial *LSP (*577) or contact their local law enforcement agency.