Hammond Man Killed in Head-On Crash

Watson - Shortly before 11:00 a.m. today, Troopers with Louisiana State Police Troop A responded to a fatal crash on LA Hwy 16 north of LA Hwy 1019 (Springfield Rd.) in Livingston Parish. The crash ultimately claimed the life of 45-year-old Benjamin Starkey of Hammond.

The initial investigation revealed that Starkey was traveling northbound on LA Hwy 16 in a 2023 Toyota Tacoma. At the same time, a 2018 International tractor-trailer was southbound on LA Hwy 16. For unknown reasons, Starkey drove into a painted gore area. He then entered the southbound lane of travel where his Tacoma was struck head-on by the International.

Starkey was transported from the scene to a local hospital where he was pronounced deceased. Both drivers were properly restrained, and impairment is not suspected. Standard toxicology samples were taken, and this crash remains under investigation.

Louisiana State Troopers wish to remind motorists the importance of making good decisions while in motor vehicles. Follow all traffic laws, never drive while impaired or distracted, and always 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.

Contact Information:
Lt. Jared L. Sandifer
Louisiana State Police
Public Affairs Section
Office: (225) 925-6202
[email protected]