Texas Man Killed in Sabine Parish Crash

TROOP E NEWS RELEASE

January 16, 2024

Sabine Parish – On January 15, 2024, at approximately 4:00 p.m., Louisiana State Police Troop E responded to a one-vehicle crash on Louisiana Highway 6 near Pioneer Road. The crash claimed the life of 78-year-old Frank Bankston of Texas.

The initial investigation revealed that a 2008 Lexus, driven by Bankston, was traveling west on Louisiana Highway 6. For reasons still under investigation, Bankston’s vehicle left the roadway, traveled down the ditch embankment and struck a tree.

Bankston, who was not restrained, sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. Two additional juvenile passengers, who were restrained, sustained moderate injuries and were 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.

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 2024, Troop E has investigated two fatal crashes, resulting in two deaths.

Contact Information:

M/T Casey Wallace

Louisiana State Police

Public Affairs Section

Office: (318) 239-0912

casey.wallace@la.gov