Amite, Louisiana – One person died and five others were seriously injured in a head-on crash Saturday afternoon on Louisiana Highway 16 near Dummyline Road in Tangipahoa Parish.
Roderick E. Brumfield, 60, of Franklinton, Louisiana lost his life when his 2003 Chevrolet Silverado crossed the centerline and collided with an oncoming 2014 Chevrolet Equinox, according to Louisiana State Police Troop L investigators.
The crash occurred around 4:00 p.m. on January 4, 2025. Brumfield, who was wearing his seatbelt at the time of the crash, was pronounced dead at the scene by local authorities.
The Equinox carried five occupants, including the driver and four passengers. While the driver and one passenger were properly restrained, investigators noted that two juveniles were incorrectly secured in their child safety seats, and another juvenile had no restraints at all. All occupants of the Equinox sustained serious injuries and were transported to area hospitals for treatment.
As part of standard protocol in fatal crash investigations, toxicology samples were collected from both drivers. The analysis results are pending as authorities continue their investigation into the cause of the crash.
The incident highlights the critical importance of proper vehicle restraints, particularly for young passengers. Child safety seats, when correctly installed and used, significantly reduce the risk of injury in vehicle crashes.
Louisiana State Police continue to investigate the circumstances that led to the Silverado crossing the centerline.