Ball Man Killed in Rapides Parish Crash

TROOP E NEWS RELEASE

November 24, 2024

Ball Man Killed in Rapides Parish Crash

Rapides Parish – On November 24, 2024, at approximately 3:20 p.m., Louisiana State Police Troop E responded to a one-vehicle crash on Gilly Williams Road at Obanion Road. The crash claimed the life of 27-year-old Brandon L. Whatley of Ball.

The initial investigation revealed that a 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee, driven by Whatley, was traveling north on Gilly Williams Road. For reasons still under investigation, Whatley’s vehicle left the roadway, traveled down the ditch embankment, overturned and struck a tree.

Whatley, who was not restrained, sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. Routine toxicology samples were obtained and submitted for analysis. This crash remains under investigation.

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.

Contact Information:

M/T Casey Wallace

Louisiana State Police

Public Affairs Section

Office: (318) 239-0912

[email protected]