Kaplan, Louisiana - A devastating crash on Louisiana Highway 14 near Pirates Lane claimed the life of a 62-year-old man on Sunday, October 13, 2024. The incident occurred shortly after 11:00 p.m. when a 2016 Toyota Highlander, driven by Mitchell Livings of Kaplan, Louisiana collided with the rear of a 2001 Kenworth 18-wheeler.

According to the preliminary investigation by Louisiana State Police Troop I, the Toyota Highlander was traveling west on LA Highway 14, following the Kenworth 18-wheeler, which was also heading in the same direction. For reasons that are still under investigation, the Toyota Highlander failed to slow down and struck the rear of the Kenworth's trailer.

According to Louisiana State Police, Livings, who was not wearing a seatbelt, sustained fatal injuries in the crash and was pronounced deceased at the scene. The driver of the Kenworth, who was properly restrained, was uninjured in the incident.

Toxicology samples were collected from Livings and submitted for analysis to determine if any substances may have contributed to the crash. The driver of the Kenworth cooperated with authorities and provided a voluntary breath sample, which revealed no alcohol detected.