Troopers responded to the crash around 4:55 p.m. June 4, which occurred on LA Hwy 565 in Wildsville. The crash involved a 2016 Toyota pickup, driven by Michael A. LaPrairie (W/M 55 yrs). The Toyota was southbound on LA Hwy 565 when LaPrairie lost control and exited the right side of the roadway. After exiting the roadway, the vehicle traveled down an embankment before colliding with several trees. LaPrairie was pronounced dead on the scene. Routine toxicology tests are pending. The crash remains under investigation. In 2018, Troop E has investigated 17 fatal crashes resulting in 17 deaths.
At approximately 5:30 p.m. yesterday, Louisiana State Police Troop G responded to a single vehicle crash on LA 157, about 3 miles north of LA 803-1 in Springhill. The preliminary investigation revealed a 1998 Nissan Altima, driven by 71-year-old Phillip Burlon Pickard of Sarepta was traveling northbound on LA 157. For reasons still under investigation, the vehicle ran off the right side of the road and hit several trees. Burlon was unrestrained at the time of the crash and sustained fatal injuries. Impairment is not suspected. A routine toxicology sample was taken. This crash remains under investigation. In 2018, Troop G has investigated seven fatal crashes resulting in seven deaths.
Troopers responded to the crash around 3:15 p.m., which occurred on US Hwy 171, north of Pickering. The crash involved a 2003 Chevrolet pickup, driven by Matthew M. Martin (W/M 18 yrs) of Hineston, LA and a pedestrian, identified as Sherell L. Lewis Jr. (B/M 31 yrs). Prior to the crash, Lewis Jr. had stopped his vehicle on the southbound shoulder of US Hwy 171, in an attempt to remove debris in the roadway. While Lewis Jr. was in the roadway, the Chevrolet collided with him. Lewis Jr. was transported to Byrd Hospital where he was pronounced dead. Martin was wearing his seat belt and was not injured. Routine toxicology tests are pending. The crash remains under investigation.
Motorists that witness hazardous road conditions and/or reckless drivers are urged to call *LSP (*577) and report that activity to the nearest Louisiana State Police Troop headquarters.
