Pineville Man Killed in Rapides Parish Crash

TROOP E NEWS RELEASE

June 29, 2024

Rapides Parish – On June 29, 2024, at approximately 2:00 p.m., Louisiana State Police Troop E responded to a two-vehicle crash on Louisiana Highway 3170. The crash claimed the life of 69-year-old Oddis L. Dunbar Jr. of Pineville.

The initial investigation revealed that a 2015 Chevrolet pickup truck, driven by 68-year-old Donald R. Jones of Alexandria, was westbound on Louisiana Highway 3170. For reasons still under investigation, the Chevrolet crossed the centerlines into the eastbound travel lane and collided head-on with a 2023 Hyundai SUV, driven by Dunbar.

Dunbar, who was restrained, sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced dead on scene. Jones, who also was restrained, sustained minor injuries and was transported to a local hospital. Routine 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.

In 2024, Troop E Troopers have investigated 31 fatal crashes, resulting in 34 fatalities.

Contact Information:

M/T Casey Wallace

Louisiana State Police

Public Affairs Section

Office: (318) 266-7275

[email protected]