Natchitoches Woman Killed in Natchitoches Parish Crash

TROOP E NEWS RELEASE

March 7, 2025

Natchitoches Parish – On March 7, 2025, at approximately 1:15 p.m., Louisiana State Police Troop E responded to a three-vehicle crash on Louisiana Highway 6 at Collins Road. The crash claimed the life of 58-year-old Doris L. Nichols of Natchitoches.

The initial investigation revealed that a 2015 GMC 2500, driven by 45-year-old David W. Cross of Deville, and a 2020 Honda CRV, driven by Nichols, were westbound on Louisiana Highway 6. For reasons still under investigation, Cross failed to slow down as Nichols was preparing to make a left turn onto Collins Road. As a result, the GMC rear-ended the Honda, causing it to enter into the eastbound lane of travel. After this initial impact, the Honda was struck a second time by an eastbound 2000 Ford pickup truck.

Nichols, who was restrained, sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced dead on scene. Cross, who also was restrained, sustained no injuries. The driver of the Ford, who also was restrained, sustained moderate injuries and was transported to a local hospital for treatment. Toxicology samples were 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.

Contact Information:

M/T Casey Wallace

Louisiana State Police

Public Affairs Section

Office: (318) 266-7275

[email protected]