5 Dead in Horrific Avoyelles Parish Crash

A three-vehicle crash on LA 29 in Avoyelles Parish has left five people dead and six people injured. Louisiana State Police say the crash, which occurred about 11:30 Monday morning is still under investigation.

Troopers believe the crash unfolded this way. Their investigation suggests that a vehicle driven by Derrick Kyle of Cottonport crossed the centerline on LA 29. That vehicle impacted a van traveling in the opposite lanes head-on. As those vehicles blocked the roadway the van was then struck by southbound Toyota Corolla.

The occupants of the truck, Derrick Kyle Jr. and Jada Cook sustained fatal injuries. A third passenger in the truck, identified as a juvenile sustained serious injuries.

There were six passengers in the van plus a driver. Three of those passengers sustained fatal injuries. There were identified as 60-year-old Steven Freeman, of Ville Platte, 50-year-old Jacoby L. Mayes, of Eunice, and 55-year-old Hayward Petre Jr., of Ville Platte. The driver and three other passengers sustained serious injuries and were transported to a local hospital for treatment.

The driver of the Toyota Corolla sustained minor injuries and was transported to a hospital as well.

Although the investigation into the crash has yet to determine an exact cause it is believed distracted driving may have played a part. Routine toxicology tests are also pending.