Independence Man Killed in Two-Vehicle Crash in Livingston Parish

Independence – Just before 6:00 p.m. on August 26, 2024, Troopers with Louisiana State Police Troop A responded to a two-vehicle crash on LA 43 near Turkey Creek Road in Livingston Parish. The crash claimed the life of 47-year-old Raymond Lexia Jr. of Independence.

The preliminary investigation revealed that a 2001 Ford Ranger, driven by Lexia, was traveling northbound on LA 43. At the same time, a 2003 Chevrolet Tahoe, driven by 35-year-old Mitchell Ballard, was traveling southbound on LA 43. For reasons still under investigation, the Chevrolet traveled off the roadway, overcorrected, and entered the northbound lanes of travel, impacting the Ford in a head-on manner.

Lexia was properly restrained but was pronounced deceased on the scene. Ballard was not properly restrained and sustained minor injuries. As a result of the investigation, Ballard was arrested and booked into the Livingston Parish Jail for Negligent Homicide and Careless Operation. Impairment is not a suspected factor in this crash, however, standard toxicology samples will be taken and submitted for analysis. This crash is still under investigation.

Troopers wish to remind motorists to always make good decisions while in a motor vehicle. Never drive impaired, fatigued, or distracted; follow all traffic laws, and always ensure every occupant is properly restrained. While not all crashes are survivable, taking simple precautions such as these can often mean the difference between life and death.

Contact Information:
Trooper Shelby Mayfield
Louisiana State Police
Public Affairs Section – Troop A
Phone: (225) 921-1384
[email protected]