A Jonesville man died this morning in a two-vehicle crash while fleeing police.
Just before 7:00 a.m. this morning, Louisiana State Police Troop F responded to a two-vehicle crash on LA Hwy 566. The preliminary investigation revealed a 2001 Suzuki motorcycle, driven by 32-year-old Uel Beard Jr. of Jonesville, refused to stop when a Trooper attempted to pull him over for a traffic violation. The motorcycle was traveling north of LA Hwy 566 when it crossed the center line and sideswiped a 2007 Jeep Liberty, driven by 77-year-old Edward Patton of Jonesville. After impact, Beard was ejected from the motorcycle.
Beard was pronounced dead at the scene by the Tensas Parish Coroner’s Office. He was wearing a DOT approved helmet at the time of the crash. Patton, who was properly restrained, was not injured in this crash.
Excessive speed is considered to be a factor in this crash. Toxicology samples were taken and will be submitted for analysis. This crash remains under investigation.
Making smart choices when driving can often be the difference between life and death. Louisiana law requires all drivers to pull safely to the shoulder of the road when a police officer is behind your vehicle with emergency lights activated.
In 2018, Troop F has investigated 27 fatal crashes resulting in 31 deaths.