Driver Killed in St. Tammany Parish Crash (4)

Covington – On July 7, 2025, at approximately 9:30 a.m., Troopers with Louisiana State Police Troop L responded to a single-vehicle crash on LA Hwy 40 near Barker Road in St. Tammany Parish. The crash claimed the life of 64-year-old Houston Dutruch of Covington.

The preliminary investigation revealed that a 1998 Ford F-800 pulling a trailer, driven by Dutruch, was traveling southbound on LA Hwy 40. For reasons still under investigation, the Ford traveled off of the roadway to the right. As a result, the Ford struck a culvert and overturned onto its roof.

Dutruch, who was properly restrained, sustained fatal injuries. He was pronounced deceased at the scene. As part of the ongoing investigation, a routine toxicology sample was obtained from Dutruch for analysis.

Troopers wish to remind motorists of the importance of making responsible decisions while operating a motor vehicle. Never drive impaired, fatigued, ill, or distracted. Additionally, Louisiana law requires that every person inside a motor vehicle, regardless of seating position, remain properly restrained. While not all crashes are survivable, taking simple precautions like these can often mean the difference between life and death. If you witness any hazardous situations, please dial *LSP (*577) to report them to the Louisiana State Police.

Contact Information:
Trooper Marc Gremillion
Louisiana State Police
Public Affairs Section – Troop L
Phone: (985) 302-9272
[email protected]