Bossier Parish, Louisiana - Troopers from Louisiana State Police Troop G initiated an investigation on Saturday, October 21, 2023, shortly before 3:00 p.m. The focus of their inquiry was a serious single-vehicle crash on Linton Cutoff Road, just east of LA Hwy 162 in Bossier Parish. Tragically, this incident claimed the life of Athalee Brown Jr., a 62-year-old individual from Benton, Louisiana.
Initial findings from the investigation indicate that the crash occurred when Brown Jr., who was driving a 2002 Ford F-150, was traveling east on Linton Cutoff Road. For reasons that are still being examined, Brown Jr. lost control of the vehicle and veered off the roadway, ultimately colliding with a tree.
Authorities indicate that he was unrestrained and as a result of this collision, Brown Jr. sustained severe injuries and was promptly transported to a local hospital for medical treatment. Sadly, on Sunday, October 22, 2023, the Bossier Parish Coroner’s Office notified Louisiana State Police that Brown Jr. had passed away due to his injuries.
In accordance with standard procedure, toxicology samples were collected as part of the ongoing investigation and will undergo analysis.
Impairment and failure to use seat belts are primary factors contributing to fatal crashes statewide. Louisiana State Police strongly urge motorists to be prepared by having a designated driver in place when consuming alcohol. Alcohol has the potential to impair one's visual perception, alter their sense of time and space, compromise fine motor skills, and reduce reaction times.
As a friendly reminder, Louisiana State Troopers request that all motorists adhere to posted speed limits and avoid any distractions while behind the wheel. Speeding hinders a driver's capability to safely navigate curves or obstacles on the road, elongates the distance required to bring a vehicle to a stop, and increases the distance traveled while the driver reacts to unforeseen circumstances.
So far in 2023, Troop G has investigated a total of 21 fatal crashes, resulting in the devastating loss of 21 lives.