Vernon Parish, Louisiana - Troop E of the Louisiana State Police responded to a collision involving two vehicles at the intersection of Louisiana Highway 3226 and BC Doyle Road on March 11, 2024, around 7:00 a.m. Sadly, the crash resulted in the death of Michael Townley, a 62-year-old resident of Deridder.

The first examination indicated that Townley was driving a 2004 Dodge Ram and was about to make a turn at the intersection of Louisiana Highway 3226 and BC Doyle Road. However, Townley entered Louisiana Highway 3226 without giving way to a westbound commercial vehicle (a loaded log truck). This led to Townley's vehicle being hit by the commercial vehicle.

Townley, who was wearing a seatbelt, suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the truck, who was also wearing a seatbelt, sustained minor injuries and was taken to a nearby hospital. Blood samples were collected for testing.

The reason for this crash is still being looked into, but distracted driving is a major factor in crashes in our state. Louisiana State Police is reminding all drivers to remain focused while on the road, as being unaware can result in tragic outcomes.

So far in 2024, Troop E Troopers conducted investigations into 12 deadly crashes that led to 14 deaths.