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Louisiana Worker from Sulphur Dies After Heavy Machinery Incident in Starks

By Calcasieu Staff

Published February 27, 2025

Starks, Louisiana — A tragic incident occurred on February 26 when 21-year-old Marcus D. Humphries from Sulphur, Louisiana suffered fatal injuries after being struck by heavy machinery. Deputies from the Calcasieu Parish Sheriff's Office (CPSO) were dispatched to the scene at 1043 Highway 109 South in Starks, Louisiana around 4:00 p.m. in response to reports of the machinery falling on an employee.

Upon arrival, deputies learned that Humphries was part of a subcontracted crew performing work at the site when he was crushed by a 9,000-pound piece of heavy equipment. Emergency responders, including the Ward 5 Fire Department and Acadian Ambulance, assisted at the location during the investigation.

CPSO detectives took over the investigation, which is currently ongoing. Initial findings do not suggest foul play, but the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) will conduct a separate investigation to further examine the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Detective Willie Fontenot is leading the investigation on behalf of the CPSO.

SWLA Week Ahead: Oct. 19–25, 2026

Early voting opens Tuesday. The Great Pumpkin Trail runs all week at Tuten Park. Saturday packs in LCFD Family Day, a workshop with Dr. Ralph Martin, and the SPAR Boo Bash — and Sunday closes the week with the CalcaChew Festival. Calcasieu Parish Early voting starts...

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