SOURCE: TROOP E
On April 30, 2021, at approximately 7:20 a.m., Louisiana State Police Troop E responded to a two-vehicle crash on Louisiana Highway 117 north of Louisiana Highway 118. This crash ultimately claimed the life of 61-year-old Tommie Scoggins, of Provencal.
The initial investigation revealed a 2008 Cadillac CTDS, driven by 45-year-old Brian A. Todd, of Olla, was traveling southbound on Louisiana Highway 117. For reasons still under investigation, Todd crossed the center lines into the northbound travel lane and struck a 2001 Chevrolet pickup, driven by Scoggins, head-on.
Scoggins, who was unrestrained, sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. Todd, who was restrained, sustained moderate injuries and was transported to a local hospital to be treated. Toxicology samples were obtained and submitted for analysis. The crash remains under investigation.
While not all crashes are survivable, proper use of seat belts can greatly decrease an occupant’s chance of death and may greatly reduce the extent of injury. Always ensuring every occupant is properly restrained can often mean the difference between life and death.
In 2021, Troop E Troopers have investigated 14 fatal crashes resulting in 14 fatalities.