Longview Man Killed in Rapides Parish Crash

TROOP E NEWS RELEASE

September 13, 2024

Longview Man Killed in Rapides Parish Crash

Rapides Parish – On September 12, 2024, at approximately 6:30 p.m., Louisiana State Police Troop E responded to a two-vehicle crash on I-49 northbound milepost 73 near Woodworth. The crash claimed the life of 32-year-old Miguel Castillo of Longview, TX.

The initial investigation revealed that a 2019 Freightliner and a 2008 Nissan, driven by Castillo, were northbound on I-49. For reasons still under investigation, Castillo failed to slow down and rear-ended the Freightliner. After impact, the Nissan exited the roadway, entered the median and struck the cable barriers.

Castillo, who was not restrained, sustained severe injuries and was transported to a local hospital where he ultimately succumbed to his injuries. The driver of the Freightliner, who was restrained, sustained no injuries. A 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.

While not all crashes are survivable, proper use of seat belts can greatly decrease an occupant’s chance of death and may greatly reduce the extent of injury. Always ensuring every occupant is properly restrained can often mean the difference between life and death.

Contact Information:

M/T Casey Wallace

Louisiana State Police

Public Affairs Section

Office: (318) 266-7275

[email protected]