A two-vehicle crash near on Tuesday near Start claimed the life of 32-yearold Brandy Cook of Rayville.
Shortly before 10 a.m. on Jan. 28, Troopers with Louisiana State Police Troop F began investigating a two-vehicle fatal crash on U.S. Highway 80 near Tupelo Drive.
The preliminary investigation revealed that 22-year-old Jaylen Hall was driving east on U.S. Highway 80 in a 2015 Chevrolet Malibu. At the same time, Cook was traveling west on U.S. Highway 80 in a 2012 Toyota Prius. For reasons still under investigation, Hall veered left, crossed the centerline, and struck the Toyota head-on in the westbound lane of U.S. Highway 80.
Cook, who was properly restrained, suffered fatal injuries and died at the scene. Hall, who was unrestrained, received moderate injuries and was transported to an area hospital for treatment. Although impairment is not suspected, routine toxicology samples were collected and will be submitted for analysis. This crash remains under investigation.
Troopers wish to remind motorists to always make good decisions while in a motor vehicle. Never drive impaired, fatigued, or distracted; follow all traffic laws and ensure every occupant is properly restrained. While not all crashes are survivable, taking simple precautions such as these can often mean the difference between life and death.
