An 89-year-old Kentwood man has died after being critically hurt in a single-vehicle crash north of Franklinton, according to state police. Troopers say the wreck happened Monday on LA 450, about a mile north of LA 25, when a pickup veered off the highway and hit a tree. The passenger, identified as George Cole of Kentwood, was rushed to a nearby hospital and later died from his injuries, while the driver walked away with only minor injuries. The crash remains under investigation.
What troopers say
In a news release, Louisiana State Police said Troop L responded shortly after 2:15 p.m. Monday to the scene on LA 450. Investigators reported that a 2001 Ford F-350 traveling north lost control, left the roadway on the left side and slammed into a tree. Both the driver and Cole were properly restrained. The driver was treated for minor injuries, while Cole initially suffered what troopers described as moderate injuries, was taken to a local hospital and was pronounced dead on Tuesday after his condition worsened.
Local reporting and next steps
WDSU also reported Cole’s death, echoing state police details on the crash site and hospital transport. The outlet noted that Troop L investigators are still working to determine what caused the truck to leave the roadway and urged anyone who may have seen anything along that stretch of LA 450 to contact authorities as the case moves forward.
Safety reminders for rural roads
Louisiana State Police used the incident as a reminder that even familiar rural routes can turn dangerous in a split second. Troopers urged drivers to stay off the road if they are impaired or overly tired, keep their focus on driving instead of distractions and make sure everyone in the vehicle is properly buckled up. As part of the standard crash protocol, routine toxicology samples were collected from the driver. Officials also encouraged regular vehicle maintenance to help reduce the chances of mechanical trouble contributing to serious wrecks while the investigation continues.
