Unrestrained Toddler Ejected and Killed in Two-Vehicle Crash

TROOP F NEWS RELEASE

September 20, 2023

Lincoln Parish – On Wednesday, September 20, 2023, shortly after 11:00 a.m., Troopers with Louisiana State Police Troop F began investigating a two-vehicle fatal crash on Interstate 20 east of LA 145. The crash claimed the life of one-year-old Arielle Gray of Farmerville.

The preliminary investigation revealed that a 2012 Kenworth tractor (semi-truck), driven by 50-year-old Danny Deason, was traveling east on Interstate 20, in the left lane. At the same time, a 2009 Hyundai Genesis was traveling east on Interstate 20, in the right lane. Deason conducted a lane change into the right lane and his vehicle struck the rear of the Hyundai. After the initial collision, the Hyundai rotated and collided with the Kenworth’s trailer.

Gray, who was unrestrained, was ejected from the Genesis and succumbed to her injuries at the scene. Although impairment is not suspected, routine toxicology samples were collected and will be submitted for analysis. This crash remains under investigation.

This week is National Child Passenger Safety Week and this Saturday, September 23, 2023 is National Seat check Saturday.

During Child Passenger Safety Week, many communities will have certified Child Passenger Safety Technicians on hand to provide free education on how to properly use car seats, booster seats, and seat belts. It is a proven fact that child restraints save lives. Our team can teach you how to select the proper child restraint, ensure that your child is placed into the restraint properly and that the restraint is correctly installed in your vehicle. Everyone who participates in a Child Safety Seat Installation Program will receive one-on-one instruction from a nationally certified child Passenger Safety Technician (CPST) or instructor.

Make plans to stop by one of the nine locations across the state that are conducting free child car seat checks. No appointment is necessary. For location information, please see attached graphic.

In 2023, Troop F has investigated 27 fatal crashes, resulting in 31 deaths.

Contact Information:

TFC Ryan Davis

Louisiana State Police

Public Affairs Section

Office: (318) 345-2810

ryan.davis@la.gov