Unrestrained Louisiana Man Killed and Another Injured in Head-On Crash on LA 3042, Charges Pending

Louisiana – Louisiana State Police reported that on August 20, 2022, shortly before 2:30 a.m., LSP Troop I was notified of a two-vehicle crash on Louisiana Highway 3042 near Theophile Road in Evangeline Parish. Lionel Gabe Bangs, 22, of Ville Platte, Louisiana, died in the crash.

Bangs was driving a 2010 Nissan Sentra south on LA 3042, according to a preliminary investigation. At the same time, Danielle Clark, 33, of Ville Platte, was driving a 2014 Buick LaCrosse north on LA 3042. Clark’s Buick crossed the center line into the path of the Sentra for unknown reasons. The automobiles collided head-on in the northbound lane of travel.
Bangs was not restrained and died as a result of his injuries. The Evangeline Parish Coroner’s Office pronounced him deceased at the scene. Clark was also unrestrained and was sent to a nearby hospital with minor injuries.

Both drivers’ impairment is unknown at this time, however, toxicology samples have been submitted to the Louisiana State Police Crime Lab for processing. The crash is still being investigated, and charges are pending.

Louisiana State Police would like to urge drivers not to drive when impaired, fatigued, or distracted, and to always ensure that all occupants are securely fastened. Simple precautions like these can frequently make the difference between life and death.

Troop I has investigated 31 fatal crashes resulting in 36 deaths since the beginning of 2022.

An arrest is an indication that probable cause exists to believe the subject was involved in the offense alleged. A person is innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.