Louisiana Man Killed in Morning Crash After Running Off Roadway and Colliding with Utility Pole on LA 871

Franklin Parish, Louisiana – A man from Louisiana was killed in a morning crash after running off the roadway and colliding with a utility pole on LA 871.

Troopers assigned to Troop F began investigating a single-vehicle fatality crash on LA Hwy 871 just south of LA Hwy 562 on May 6, 2023, just before 5:00 a.m., according to Louisiana State Police (LSP). Thomas Wollerson, 45, of Winnsboro, Louisiana, was killed in the crash.
The initial inquiry found that Wollerson was driving a 2015 Dodge Ram south on LA Highway 871. The Dodge exited the roadway and collided with a utility pole for unknown reasons.

Wollerson, who was properly restrained according to police, died as a result of the crash. The Franklin Parish Coroner’s Office pronounced him dead at the scene.

Wollerson’s impairment is unknown; however, regular toxicological samples were taken and will be sent for investigation. This crash is still being investigated.

Although the specific reason for this crash is still being investigated, Troopers want to warn the public that inattentive and distracted driving is dangerous and a top cause of crashes in our state. It is critical for drivers to be awake, get plenty of rest, and be aware of other vehicles on the road at all times.

Troop F has investigated 14 fatal crashes so far in 2023, resulting in 15 deaths.