Marksville Woman Killed in Avoyelles Parish Crash

TROOP E NEWS RELEASE

March 29, 2024

Avoyelles Parish – On March 29, 2024, at approximately 11:50 a.m., Louisiana State Police Troop E responded to a two-vehicle crash on Louisiana Highway 107 at Laura’s Lane. The crash claimed the life of 58-year-old Joyce James of Marksville.

The initial investigation revealed that a 2004 Toyota pickup truck, driven by 66-year-old Terry Lagrange of Cottonport, was traveling south on Louisiana Highway 107. For reasons still under investigation, Lagrange attempted to overtake a southbound vehicle, but failed to yield to a northbound 2014 Kia Sorento. As a result, the Toyota struck the Kia head-on.

Lagrange and a passenger in the Toyota, who were not restrained, sustained moderate injuries and were transported to a local hospital. The driver of the Kia, who was restrained, sustained moderate injuries and was transported to a local hospital. James, who was a passenger in the Kia and who also was not restrained, sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased. Routine toxicology samples were obtained and submitted for analysis. This crash remains under investigation.

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.

In 2024, Troop E has investigated 16 fatal crashes, resulting in 18 deaths.

Contact Information:

M/T Casey Wallace

Louisiana State Police

Public Affairs Section

Office: (318) 239-0912

[email protected]