Four Northeast Louisiana Residents Killed in Two Separate Crashes

TROOP F NEWS RELEASE

September 30, 2023

Caldwell Parish – On Friday, September 29, 2023, shortly before 4:00 p.m., Troopers with Louisiana State Police Troop F began investigating a two-vehicle fatal crash on US 165 near LA 126. The crash claimed the lives of 60-year-old Rhonda Clark of Columbia and 53-year-old Vahona Armstrong of Choudrant.

The preliminary investigation revealed that a 2019 Toyota Avalon, driven by Clark, was traveling north on US 165. At the same time, a 2008 Dodge Caravan, driven by Armstrong, was traveling south on US 165. For reasons still under investigation, the Toyota crossed the centerline and struck the Dodge head-on.

Clark, who was properly restrained, was transported to an area hospital where she was pronounced dead. Armstong, who was properly restrained, was pronounced dead at the scene. Two additional occupants in the Dodge suffered moderate injuries and were transported to area hospitals for treatment. Impairment is a suspected factor in this crash. Routine toxicology samples were collected and will be submitted for analysis. This crash remains under investigation.

Troopers wish to remind motorists to always make good decisions while in a motor vehicle. Never drive impaired, fatigued, or distracted. Follow all traffic laws and always ensure every occupant is properly restrained. While not all crashes are survivable, taking simple precautions like these can often mean the difference between life and death.

Madison Parish – On Friday, September 29, 2023, shortly after 5:00 p.m., Troopers with Louisiana State Police Troop F began investigating a single-vehicle fatal crash on US 80 east of Delhi. The crash claimed the lives of 37-year-old Nathan Barnett and 28-year-old Darryon Morris of Tallulah.

The preliminary investigation revealed that a 2004 Dodge Ram, driven by 26-year-old Kevonta Everett, was traveling east on US 80. For reasons still under investigation, Everett lost control of the Dodge and ran off the right side of the roadway before the vehicle began overturning.

Barnett, Morris, and a third passenger, who were all riding in the Dodge's cargo area (bed), were ejected. Barnett was pronounced dead at the scene. Morris was transported to an area hospital where he was pronounced dead. Four additional occupants received minor to moderate injuries and were transported to an area hospital for treatment. Speed is a suspected factor in this crash. Routine toxicology samples were collected and will be submitted for analysis. This crash remains under investigation.

Louisiana State Police would like to remind motorists to slow down, buckle up, and lessen the distractions in the vehicle. Crash forces do not care who you are or what you drive. The faster you drive, the greater the risk of serious injury or death. Not wearing a seat belt dramatically increases that risk. Buckle up every trip, every ride.

In 2023, Troop F has investigated 32 fatal crashes, resulting in 40 deaths.

Contact Information:

TFC Ryan Davis

Louisiana State Police

Public Affairs Section

Office: (318) 345-2810

ryan.davis@la.gov