Unrestrained Driver Killed in East Feliciana Parish Crash

Published: 01-05-2021 | Category: Troop A

Ethel – Shortly before 7:00 pm on January 4, 2021, Troopers from Louisiana State Police Troop A began investigating a three vehicle fatality crash on LA Hwy 19 south of LA Hwy 956 in East Feliciana Parish. The crash claimed the life of 61-year-old Russell Landon of Ethel.

The initial investigation revealed the crash occurred as Landon was traveling northbound on LA Hwy 19 in a 2019 Ford F-150. At the same time, a 2008 Ford Taurus was traveling southbound on LA Hwy 19. For reasons still under investigation, Landon crossed the centerline into the opposing lane, which resulted in the Ford F-150 striking the Taurus head-on. After striking the Taurus, the Ford F-150 overturned and came to a stop in the southbound and northbound lanes of travel, where it was subsequently struck by a southbound 2009 Chevrolet Silverado.

Landon was unrestrained at the time of the crash and sustained fatal injuries. He was pronounced deceased on the scene. The drivers of the Taurus and Silverado were properly restrained and sustained moderate injuries. They were transported to local hospitals for treatment. As part of the ongoing investigation, toxicology samples were obtained for analysis.

Louisiana State Troopers wish to remind motorists that while not all crashes are survivable, statistics show that the chances of surviving a crash rise significantly when properly restrained. Making good choices while in motor vehicles such as never driving while impaired, always ensuring every occupant is properly restrained, and avoiding all distractions can often mean the difference between life and death.

Contact Information:
TFC Taylor J. Scrantz
Louisiana State Police
Public Affairs Section
Office: (225) 754-8524
taylor.scrantz@la.gov