Troop E (2) - Louisiana State Police

TROOP E NEWS RELEASE
August 20, 2023

Forest Hill Man Killed in Rapides Parish Crash, Impairment Suspected

Rapides Parish – On August 20, 2023, at approximately 1:00 p.m., Louisiana State Police Troop E responded to a one-vehicle crash on Louisiana Highway 113 near East River Road. The crash claimed the life of 64-year-old Alfonso J. Rubio-Araiza.

The initial investigation revealed that Rubio-Araiza was traveling south on Louisiana Highway 113. For reasons still under investigation, Rubio-Araiza’s vehicle traveled off the roadway and struck a large tree. After striking the tree, the vehicle became engulfed in flames (vehicle identification is pending).

Rubio-Arazia, who was not restrained, sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. Impairment is a suspected factor in this crash. Routine toxicology samples were obtained and submitted for analysis. This crash remains under investigation.

Louisiana State Police would like to remind all motorists that if you feel differently, you drive differently. Alcohol, prescription drugs, and other drugs have many effects on the body that negatively affect driving skills. These drugs can impair visual ability, alter the sense of time and space, impair fine motor skills needed to operate a motor vehicle, and decrease reaction times. Motorists are encouraged to plan ahead and designate a sober driver. Not doing so can have deadly consequences.

While 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 35 fatal crashes, resulting in 40 deaths.

Contact Information:
M/T Casey Wallace
Louisiana State Police
Public Affairs Section
Office: (318) 239-0912
casey.wallace@la.gov