Early Aug. 4, a single vehicle crash killed a woman from Vidalia.
Troopers responded to the crash around 6:25 a.m. on US Hwy 171 north of LA Hwy 10. The crash involved a 2007 Freightliner 18-wheeler loaded with logs driven by Allen D. Manchester Jr., w/m, 58, of Vidalia. The Freightliner was southbound on US Hwy 171 when Manchester Jr. lost control and exited the right side of the roadway. After exiting the roadway, the vehicle collided with a guardrail and then a concrete bridge rail before overturning. The vehicle then became engulfed in flames.
Manchester Jr. was able to escape the burning vehicle, but received moderate injuries. He was transported to Rapides Regional Trauma Center. His only passenger, identified as Mona R. Manchester, w/f, 56, was unable to escape the burning vehicle and was pronounced dead.
It is unknown, at this time, if seat belts were used by the occupants.
The investigation remains ongoing. Routine toxicology tests and charges are pending.
Troop E Troopers have investigated 24 fatal crashes in 2017, resulting in 30 fatalities.
