Minden, Louisiana — A two-vehicle crash on U.S. Highway 79, north of Louisiana Highway 518, resulted in the death of a local woman on the evening of May 6, according to Louisiana State Police Troop G. The incident, which occurred at approximately 7:50 p.m., involved a northbound 2017 Nissan Versa and a southbo 15 Freightliner Cascadia.
The preliminary investigation suggests that the Nissan Versa, driven by 55-year-old Cecilia Marston of Homer, crossed the centerline of the highway for reasons that remain under investigation. The vehicle subsequently collided with the Freightliner Cascadia, a large commercial truck, traveling in the opposite direction.
Marston, who officials confirm was properly restrained by her seatbelt, suffered severe injuries as a result of the crash. Emergency responders transported her to a nearby hospital, where she was pronounced dead. The driver of the Freightliner, whose identity has not been released, was also wearing a seatbelt and did not sustain any injuries.
Louisiana State Police have stated that impairment on the part of Marston is not suspected at this time. However, in accordance with standard procedure for fatal crashes, toxicology samples were collected and submitted for analysis. Results from these tests are pending and may provide further insight into the circumstances surrounding the crash.
The investigation is ongoing, with authorities working to determine the precise cause of the incident. State police have not indicated whether road conditions, driver distraction, or vehicle malfunction may have contributed to the crash.
U.S. Highway 79 is a major route in Claiborne Parish, frequently used by both local and commercial traffic. Incidents involving passenger vehicles and large trucks can be especially serious due to differences in size and weight between vehicles. Commercial trucks, such as the Freightliner Cascadia, are classified as "Class 8" vehicles, meaning they can weigh up to 80,000 pounds when fully loaded—much heavier than the average passenger car.
Authorities remind all drivers to remain vigilant, obey traffic laws, and use seatbelts at all times. While seatbelt use does not guarantee survival in every crash, statistics show it significantly reduces the risk of fatal injury.