Colfax Man Killed in Grant Parish Crash

Published: 10-23-2023 | Category: Troop E

TROOP E NEWS RELEASE

October 23, 2023

Colfax Man Killed in Grant Parish Crash

Grant Parish – On October 22, 2023, at approximately 3:30 p.m., Louisiana State Police Troop E responded to a one-vehicle crash on Louisiana Highway 500 east of Louisiana Highway 472. This crash killed 51-year-old Elres Ray Ehrman of Colfax.  

The initial investigation revealed that a 1997 Ford F-150, driven by 31-year-old Laicon Purvis of Atlanta, was eastbound on Louisiana Highway 500.  For reasons still under investigation, Purvis’ vehicle experienced a tire malfunction, which caused her to lose control. The vehicle subsequently exited the roadway and overturned. This action ejected Ehrman from the vehicle.

Ehrman, who was unrestrained, sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. Purvis, who also was unrestrained, sustained moderate injuries and was transported to a local hospital. Toxicology samples were obtained and submitted for analysis. This crash remains under investigation.  

Although not all crashes are survivable, proper use of seat belts can greatly decrease an occupant’s chance of death and may greatly reduce the extent of injury. Always ensuring every occupant is properly restrained can often mean the difference between life and death.

In 2023, Troop E has investigated 44 fatal crashes resulting in 49 deaths.

Contact Information:

M/T Casey Wallace

Louisiana State Police

Public Affairs Section

Office: (318) 239-0912

casey.wallace@la.gov