Published: 01-05-2026 | Category: Troop L
Angie – On January 4, 2026, at approximately 11:50 a.m., Troopers with Louisiana State Police Troop L responded to a single-vehicle crash on LA Highway 21 near LA Highway 438 in Washington Parish. The crash claimed the life of 53-year-old James M. Brister of Angie.
The initial investigation revealed that a 2003 Toyota Camry, driven by 45-year-old Shantrell M. Spikes of Angie, was traveling north on LA Highway 21. For reasons still under investigation, the Toyota crossed the center line and ran off the roadway to the left. The Toyota re-entered the roadway when Spikes overcorrected and lost control. The Toyota overturned and rolled into the adjacent ditch.
Brister, who was unrestrained in the front passenger seat, was ejected from the vehicle and died on scene. Spikes, who was also unrestrained, suffered serious injuries and was transported to a local hospital.
During the investigation, Spikes showed signs of impairment and was subsequently arrested. Upon her release from the hospital, Spikes will be booked into the Washington Parish Correctional Facility for Vehicular Homicide, Driving While Intoxicated (First Offense), Careless Operation, and No Seatbelt Worn. As part of the ongoing investigation, routine toxicology samples were collected for analysis. This crash remains under investigation.
Louisiana State Police remind all motorists of the dangers of impaired driving, which can have devastating consequences, whether caused by alcohol, drugs, or a combination of the two. Motorists are urged to make responsible decisions, including never driving while impaired, always ensuring all occupants are properly restrained, and avoiding distractions while driving. While not all crashes are survivable, taking simple precautions such as these can often mean the difference between life and death. To report hazardous driving, dial *LSP (*577).
Contact Information:
Trooper Marc Gremillion
Louisiana State Police
Public Affairs Section – Troop L
Phone: (985) 302-9272
[email protected]