Published: 01-16-2026 | Category: Troop E
Natchitoches Parish – On January 14, 2026, at approximately 11:00 p.m., Louisiana State Police Troop E responded to a one-vehicle crash on Louisiana Highway 174. The crash claimed the life of 50-year-old Patrick T. Funderburk of Conway, AR.
The initial investigation revealed that a 2006 Toyota 4-Runner, driven by Funderburk, was westbound on Louisiana Highway 174. For reasons still under investigation, Funderburk left the roadway, traveled down the ditch embankment and overturned. After impact, the 4-Runner became engulfed in flames.
Funderburk, restraint usage unknown, sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced dead. Routine toxicology sample was 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]