Coushatta Woman Killed in Natchitoches Parish Crash

TROOP E NEWS RELEASE

March 6, 2024

Natchitoches Parish – On March 6, 2024, at approximately 1:00 p.m., Louisiana State Police Troop E responded to a two-vehicle crash on Louisiana Highway 486 north of Louisiana Highway 6. The crash claimed the life of 66-year-old Diane Thomas of Coushatta.

The initial investigation revealed that a 2005 Honda CRV, driven by Thomas, was eastbound on Louisiana Highway 486. For reasons still under investigation, the Honda CRV crossed the centerlines into the westbound travel lane and collided head-on with a 2021 Honda Civic.

Thomas, who was restrained, sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased. The driver of the Honda Civic, who also was restrained, sustained moderate injuries and was transported to a local hospital. Routine toxicology samples were obtained and submitted for analysis.

While the cause of this crash remains under investigation, distracted and inattentive driving continues to be a leading cause of crashes in our state. Louisiana State Police urges all motorists to stay alert while driving. A lapse in one’s awareness can have deadly consequences.

In 2024, Troop E Troopers have investigated 11 fatal crashes, resulting in 13 fatalities.

Contact Information:

M/T Casey Wallace

Louisiana State Police

Public Affairs Section

Office: (318) 239-0912

casey.wallace@la.gov