Richland Parish, Louisiana - Two children were killed in a two-vehicle crash in Louisiana on US 425 after the vehicle they were riding in was rear-ended by a tractor-trailer.

Just after 7:00 a.m. on August 14, 2023, officers from Troop F of the Louisiana State Police commenced an inquiry into a fatal collision involving two vehicles on U.S. Highway 425 at Buckles Road. Bryn Thompson, aged 9, and Harrison Thompson, aged 7, both from Rayville, Louisiana tragically lost their lives in the crash.

According to LSP, the initial inquiry indicated that a 2020 Chevrolet Suburban, operated by Kasey Thompson, 43, was driving southbound on U.S. Highway 425. Concurrently, a 2001 Volvo tractor that was hauling a grain trailer, driven by James Barnes, 70, was also heading in the same direction on the same highway, trailing the Chevrolet. As Thompson was getting ready to make a left turn onto Buckles Road, the Volvo hit the rear end of the Chevrolet. Following the collision, the Chevrolet was consumed by fire.

The Richland Parish Coroner's Office confirmed the death of Bryn and Harrison Thompson, who were properly restrained, at the crash scene. Kasey Thompson and her front-seat occupant, who were also properly restrained, suffered non-critical injuries and were taken to a nearby hospital. Barnes, who was not restrained, remained uninjured. Despite no immediate suspicion of impairment, standard toxicology samples were extracted for further examination. The investigation into the crash is ongoing.

Always ensure your safety on the road by maintaining focus while driving and avoiding any form of impairment. Keep distractions such as phone use, eating, or texting at bay, and concentrate on your driving. Furthermore, refrain from driving after consuming alcohol or using drugs, whether prescribed or illegal. Being a responsible driver can potentially save lives and avert disastrous situations.

So far in 2023, Louisiana State Police Tropp F has conducted investigations into 22 deadly collisions, which have led to 25 fatalities.