Unrestrained Driver Killed in Washington Parish Crash

Washington Parish - On December 10, 2024, at approximately 12:10 p.m., Troopers with Louisiana State Police Troop L responded to a single-vehicle crash on LA Hwy 38 near Maple Cemetery Road in Washington Parish. The crash claimed the life of 31-year-old Michael Parker of Hammond.

The preliminary investigation revealed that Parker was driving a 2025 Freightliner M2 westbound on LA Hwy 38. For reasons still under investigation, the Freightliner traveled off the right side of the roadway and overturned.

Parker, who was unrestrained, was partially ejected from the vehicle and sustained fatal injuries. He was pronounced deceased at the scene. A passenger in the Freightliner, who was properly restrained, sustained minor injuries and was transported to a local hospital. As part of the ongoing investigation, a routine toxicology sample was obtained from Parker for analysis.

Troopers wish to remind motorists of the importance of making responsible decisions while operating a motor vehicle. Never drive impaired, fatigued, or distracted. Additionally, Louisiana law requires that every person inside a motor vehicle, regardless of seating position, remain properly restrained. While not all crashes are survivable, taking simple precautions like these can often mean the difference between life and death.

Contact Information:
Trooper Marc Gremillion
Louisiana State Police
Public Affairs Section - Troop L
Phone: (225) 877-8417
[email protected]