Gassoway – On June 19, 2021, shortly after 5:30 p.m., Louisiana State Police Troop F responded to a single-vehicle fatal crash on LA Hwy 585, just west of US Hwy 65. This crash claimed the life of 78-year-old Joseph Lecompte of Eudora, Ark., according to information from LSP.
LSP officials said thhe initial investigation revealed a 2004 Toyota Tacoma, driven by Lecompte, was traveling west on LA Hwy 585. For reasons still under investigation, the vehicle traveled off the left side of the road and through a ditch. After driving through the ditch, the vehicle struck a utility pole.
Lecompte, who was unrestrained, was ejected and pronounced dead at the scene, LSP said. Toxicology samples were obtained and will be submitted for analysis.
LSP officials stressed buckling up is the most effective way to protect yourself during a vehicle crash, and failure to do so can have devastating consequences. Louisiana law requires every person in a vehicle, regardless of seating position, to be properly restrained day or night.
In 2021, Troop F has investigated 25 fatal crashes resulting in 28 deaths.
