Bicyclist Killed in Tangipahoa Parish Crash (2)

TROOP L NEWS RELEASE
December 27, 2024

Bicyclist Killed in Tangipahoa Parish Crash

Kentwood – On December 26, 2024, at approximately 6:30 p.m., Troopers with Louisiana State Police Troop L began investigating a serious injury crash involving two bicyclists on LA Hwy 1061 near Crawford Road in Tangipahoa Parish. The crash claimed the life of 13-year-old Benjamin Mixon of Kentwood.

The preliminary investigation revealed that a 2002 Chevrolet Silverado was traveling southbound on LA Hwy 1061 toward a hillcrest. At the same time, Mixon and another bicyclist were traveling in the southbound lane of LA Hwy 1061 on the hillcrest. For reasons still under investigation, the Chevrolet struck Mixon and the second bicyclist in the southbound lane.

Mixon, who was wearing dark-colored clothing, sustained critical injuries as a result of the crash and was transported to a local hospital. At the hospital, Mixon succumbed to his injuries. The second bicyclist, who was also wearing dark-colored clothing, sustained moderate injuries and was transported to a local hospital. The driver of the Chevrolet, who was properly restrained, was uninjured. A routine toxicology sample was obtained from the driver of the Chevrolet for analysis as part of the ongoing investigation.

Troopers want to remind bicyclists that Louisiana law classifies bicycles as vehicles, meaning cyclists must adhere to the same traffic laws as motorists. Never assume that a motorist can see you, and remember that it’s important to stay visible by using appropriate lighting and wearing bright or reflective clothing in low-light conditions. Additionally, cyclists are required to ride as close to the right-hand side of the road as possible, except when passing or turning left. For additional information on bicycle safety, visit the Louisiana Highway Safety Commission’s website at https://www.lahighwaysafety.org/our-programs/bicycle-pedestrian-safety/.

Contact Information:
Trooper Marc Gremillion
Louisiana State Police
Public Affairs Section – Troop L
Phone: (225) 877-8417