Published: 03-29-2026 | Category: Troop L
Tickfaw – On March 28, 2026, at approximately 11:00 p.m., Troopers with Louisiana State Police Troop L responded to a fatal crash involving a pedestrian on Interstate 55 northbound just south of LA Highway 442 in Tangipahoa Parish. The crash claimed the life of 26-year-old Austin B. Gentry of Independence.
The preliminary investigation revealed that two separate crashes occurred in the same general location along Interstate 55. Gentry had been involved in an earlier crash on the southbound side of Interstate 55. Following the initial crash and before emergency personnel arrived, Gentry exited his vehicle on the southbound side of Interstate 55 and attempted to cross the northbound lanes. At the same time, a 2010 Toyota Corolla was traveling north on Interstate 55 when it struck Gentry as he was attempting to cross the roadway. At the time of the crash, Gentry was wearing dark-colored clothing in an unilluminated portion of Interstate 55.
Gentry sustained fatal injuries and died at the scene. The driver of the Toyota was properly restrained and uninjured.
Impairment is not suspected for the driver of the Toyota, who provided a breath sample of .000 g%. A routine toxicology sample was obtained from Gentry for analysis as part of the ongoing investigation.
Troopers urge pedestrians to exercise caution when walking near roadways. Wearing reflective materials, avoiding distractions, and keeping a safe distance from traffic lanes while facing oncoming vehicles can help prevent pedestrian-related crashes. Motorists should also stay alert when approaching disabled vehicles or pedestrians on the roadside. If you witness any hazardous situations, please dial *LSP (*577) to report it to the Louisiana State Police.
Contact Information:
Trooper Marc Gremillion
Louisiana State Police
Public Affairs Section – Troop L
Phone: (985) 302-9272
[email protected]