Published: 10-26-2025 | Category: Troop L
St. Helena Parish – On October 26, 2025, at approximately 2:30 a.m., Troopers with Louisiana State Police Troop L responded to a two-vehicle crash on LA Hwy 1045 near LA Hwy 43 in St. Helena Parish. The crash claimed the life of 25-year-old Elijah L. Brumfield of Baton Rouge.
The preliminary investigation revealed that Brumfield was driving a 2011 Mazda Mazda3 westbound on LA Hwy 1045. At the same time, a 2006 Ford F-250, driven by Travis D. Keller of Slaughter, was traveling eastbound on LA Hwy 1045. For reasons still under investigation, the Mazda crossed the centerline and struck the Ford head-on.
Brumfield, who was unrestrained, was ejected from the vehicle and sustained fatal injuries. He was pronounced deceased at the scene. Keller, who was properly restrained, sustained minor injuries and declined medical treatment at the scene.
During the investigation, Troopers determined that Keller was impaired at the time of the crash. Keller was charged with 1st Offense DWI and other traffic charges, but due to injuries sustained in the crash, he was released on a summons and placed into the care of medical staff at a local hospital. As part of the ongoing investigation, a routine toxicology sample was obtained from both drivers for analysis.
This crash remains under investigation.
Troopers wish to remind motorists of the importance of making good decisions while in motor vehicles. Never drive impaired, fatigued, or distracted. Additionally, Louisiana law requires that every person inside a motor vehicle, regardless of seating position, always remain properly restrained. While not all crashes are survivable, taking simple precautions like these can mean the difference between life and death.
Contact Information:
Trooper Marc Gremillion
Louisiana State Police
Public Affairs Section – Troop L
Phone: (225) 877-8417
[email protected]