Richland Parish, Louisiana - Troopers from Louisiana State Police Troop F initiated an investigation into a deadly collision involving three vehicles on US-80 near LA-183 around 6 pm, on Thursday, January 25, 2024. Tragically, the crash resulted in the death of Walter Carroll, a 76-year-old resident of Rayville, Louisiana.

According to the initial investigation, Carroll was driving a 2014 Nissan Altima and was following a 2004 Nissan Frontier on US-80 heading west. Simultaneously, a 1997 Dodge Ram was traveling east on US-80. The Altima, for reasons that are still being looked into, tried to overtake the Frontier in a designated passing area and collided with the Ram in a head-on collision. Subsequently, the Altima veered into the westbound lane of US-80 and also crashed into the Frontier.

Carroll, who was not wearing a seatbelt, was declared dead at the location of the crash. The drivers of the Frontier and the Ram, who were both wearing their seatbelts, were taken to a nearby hospital with moderate injuries. 

While there is no suspicion of impairment, standard toxicology samples were gathered and will be examined. This collision is still being investigated.

Troopers want to emphasize to drivers the importance of making responsible choices while operating a vehicle. It is essential to never drive under the influence, when tired, or while distracted. It is also crucial to obey all traffic regulations and ensure that everyone in the vehicle is using their seatbelts correctly. Although not all crashes can be avoided, following these basic precautions can often determine whether one survives or loses their life.

Two fatalities have been reported as a result of Troop F's investigation of two crashes that occurred in 2024.