MS Coast man was under the influence of drugs in DUI that left woman dead, indictment says
A Hancock County grand jury has indicted a Mississippi Coast man accused of causing a woman’s death while driving under the influence of drugs.
Jason Lance Cassagne, 52, of Picayune, was booked into the Hancock County jail Thursday morning. He is indicted on five felony charges: four counts of driving under the influence causing death or disfigurement and one count of manslaughter.
The charges stem from the death of Antoinette Ladner on February 28, 2023, according to the July 25 indictment. The indictment also says Cassagne injured Freddie Ladner while driving under the influence.
The indictment charges Cassagne with causing Ladner’s death while driving under the influence of THC and Alprazolam. THC is a chemical derived from hemp or marijuana. Alprazolam, commonly known as Xanax, is often used to treat panic or anxiety disorders. Health care professionals say combining marijuana products and Xanax can lead to fatigue, dangerously low heart and respiratory rates, slurred speech and impaired judgment.
Antoinette Ladner, 76, worked in hospitality on the Coast and was “a true southern belle,” according to her obituary.
“Toni was full of life, never met a stranger, and could always be found striking up a conversation,” her obituary said. “She truly loved all those around her, and her memory will live through all of us.”
She died in Pass Christian.
A conviction on felony DUI that causes death or injuries carries a maximum sentence of 25 years. The maximum sentence for a manslaughter conviction is 20 years.
This story was originally published August 2, 2024 at 10:05 AM.
