Garyville, Louisiana - After 2:00 a.m. on February 11, 2024, Troopers from Louisiana State Police Troop B initiated an investigation into a fatal crash on the westbound side of I-10, near LA 641. The crash resulted in the death of Eddie Ward, a 25-year-old individual from Spartanburg, South Carolina.

According to the preliminary investigation, Ward was driving a 2022 Kia K5 heading west on I-10. For currently unknown reasons, Ward lost control of his vehicle and veered off the road, ultimately colliding with a tree.

According to Louisiana State Police, Ward was not wearing a seatbelt during the crash, sustained severe injuries, and was taken to a nearby hospital where he passed away. 

LSP indicated that it was not clear if Ward was impaired, and a sample was collected to check for intoxicating substances. This crash is still being looked into.

Louisiana State Troopers want to emphasize to drivers that even though not all crashes can be survived, data proves that the likelihood of surviving a crash increases considerably when you are wearing your seatbelt correctly. Making wise decisions when driving a vehicle, such as never driving under the influence, always ensuring all passengers are wearing seatbelts, and avoiding any distractions, can frequently be the determining factor between life and death.