Louisiana Bicyclist Succumbs to Injuries Received in Crash on LA 660

Louisiana – On May 23, 2022, Louisiana State Police reported that on May 17, 2022, shortly after 5:00 p.m., LSP Troop C was notified of a severe injury crash involving a bicyclist on Louisiana Highway 660 at the intersection with Bayou Gardens Boulevard on Louisiana Highway 660 at the intersection with Bayou Gardens Boulevard. Colby Prestenback, 21, of Gray, Louisiana, died as a result of the crash. Prestenback was riding his bicycle south on the northbound shoulder of LA Hwy 660, approaching the intersection with Bayou Gardens Boulevard, according to preliminary investigation. Simultaneously, a 2006 Ford F-150 was driving east on Bayou Gardens Boulevard, approaching the intersection with LA Highway 660. Prestenback failed to stop for a red traffic signal, entered the intersection with Bayou Gardens Boulevard, and was hit by the Ford, which had a green traffic signal.

Prestenback was not wearing a bicycle helmet at the time of the crash, suffered serious injuries, and was taken to a hospital outside of the area for treatment. The Ford driver was properly restrained and suffered no injuries.

Prestenback’s toxicology sample was collected and sent for testing. The driver of the Ford was not suspected of being intoxicated and provided a voluntary breath sample, which revealed no alcohol.

On May 22, 2022, Troop C was notified by the Terrebonne Parish Coroner’s Office that Prestenback had succumbed to his injuries. This crash remains under investigation.

Bicyclists in Louisiana are required by law to ride as close to the right side of the road as possible, to travel in the direction of traffic, and to obey all traffic lights and signage. Additional precautions, such as wearing a safety helmet and avoiding distractions, can help to avoid accidents and injuries.

Troop C has investigated 17 fatal crashes resulting in 18 deaths in 2022.