Acme Woman Killed in Rapides Parish Crash

TROOP E NEWS RELEASE

May 9, 2025

Acme Woman Killed in Rapides Parish Crash

Rapides Parish – On May 8, 2025, at approximately 4:00 p.m., Louisiana State Police Troop E responded to a three-vehicle crash on Louisiana Highway 28 East at Rosier Road. The crash claimed the life of 33-year-old Gretchen A. Lucas of Acme.

The initial investigation revealed that a 2019 Honda Pilot, driven by Lucas, and a 2013 Peterbilt were eastbound on Louisiana Highway 28 East. For reasons still under investigation, Lucas failed to slow down as the Peterbilt was preparing to make a left turn onto Rosier Road. As a result, the Honda rear-ended the Peterbilt, causing it to enter into the westbound lane of travel. After this initial impact, the Honda was struck a second time by a westbound 2020 Freightliner.

Lucas, who was restrained, sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced dead on scene. The driver of the Peterbilt, who also was restrained, sustained no injuries. The driver of the Freightliner, who also was restrained, sustained moderate injuries and was transported to a local hospital for treatment. 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.

Contact Information:

M/T Casey Wallace

Louisiana State Police

Public Affairs Section

Office: (318) 266-7275

[email protected]