A tragic event unfolded on Louisiana Highway 6 at Collins Road on Friday, when a multi-vehicle collision resulted in fatalities and injuries. Louisiana State Police Troop E reported to the scene in the early afternoon to investigate the incident. According to their preliminary findings, the crash involved a 2015 GMC 2500, a 2020 Honda CRV, and a 2000 Ford pickup truck.
The Honda CRV, driven by 58-year-old Doris L. Nichols of Natchitoches, was preparing to make a left turn when it was rear-ended by the GMC. This chain of events set in motion what was to result in a second collision with an eastbound Ford pickup. Nichols was unfortunately pronounced dead at the scene. In a statement obtained by Louisiana State Police, the drivers of the other vehicles sustained injuries of varying degrees, with the driver of the Ford pickup needing transport to a local hospital for treatment of moderate injuries.
Both the driver of the GMC, 45-year-old David W. Cross of Deville, and the driver of the Ford pickup truck were restrained and survived the collision, with the former escaping uninjured. Authorities have begun to conduct a full investigation to determine the precise cause of the crash. Toxicology samples were obtained and have been submitted for analysis to aid in the ongoing probe.
In the aftermath of such incidents, Louisiana State Police has taken the opportunity to remind all motorists of the paramount importance of staying alert behind the wheel. According to their press release, "A lapse in one’s awareness can have deadly consequences." They further stress that distracted and inattentive driving remains to be a leading cause of vehicle crashes in the state. It is their hope that spreading this message will prevent future tragedies from taking place on Louisiana roadways.
