On June 19, at approximately 9 a.m., Louisiana State Police Troop E responded to a fatal crash on Louisiana Highway 8 near Harrisonburg. This crash claimed the life of 33-year-old Rene D. Graham of Sicily Island.
The initial investigation revealed a 2001 Chevrolet Silverado, driven by Graham, was traveling east on Louisiana Highway 8. For reasons still under investigation, Graham's vehicle traveled off the right side of the roadway, struck a ditch embankment, and overturned. This action ejected Graham from the vehicle.
Graham, who was unrestrained, sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced dead. A toxicology sample was obtained and submitted for analysis. This crash remains under investigation.
While not all crashes are survivable, proper use of seat belts can greatly decrease an occupants' 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 2022, troop E has investigated 17 fatal crashes resulting in 18 deaths.