Pedestrian Killed in St. James Parish Crash (1)

St. James – On December 10, 2024, shortly before 5:00 a.m., Louisiana State Police Troop C began investigating a single-vehicle fatal crash involving a pedestrian on Louisiana Highway 70 just west of the Sunshine Bridge. The crash claimed the life of 63-year-old Randolph McKinley of Convent.

The preliminary investigation revealed that a 2014 GMC Sierra was traveling east on LA Hwy 70. At the same time, McKinley was walking north across the eastbound lanes of travel on LA Hwy 70. For reasons still under investigation, the GMC struck McKinley.

McKinley sustained fatal injuries and died at the scene. The driver of the GMC was properly restrained and not injured.

The driver of the GMC was not suspected of being impaired and voluntarily provided a breath sample which showed no alcohol detected. A standard toxicology sample was collected from McKinley and submitted for analysis. This crash remains under investigation.

Both pedestrians and motorist are urged to remain vigilant while on roadways and to pay close attention to their surroundings. Crashes involving pedestrians can often be avoided by following basic safety guidelines. Pedestrians should wear light-colored or reflective clothing and should avoid walking on roadways in dark areas. Pedestrians must assume that approaching motorists cannot see them, especially at night. Pedestrians should cross roadways in well-lit, designated areas and always walk facing oncoming traffic. These simple steps can help enhance safety for pedestrians.

Contact Information:
TFC Tiah Larvadain
Louisiana State Police
Public Affairs Section – Troop C
Office: (985) 857-3680
[email protected]