Published: 05-09-2026 | Category: Troop D
TROOP D NEWS RELEASE
May 9, 2026
Two Drivers Killed in Head-On Calcasieu Parish Crash
Bell City – On May 8, 2026, shortly after 3:30 p.m., Troopers with Louisiana State Police Troop D responded to a two-vehicle crash on Louisiana Highway 27 near Natalie Road. The crash claimed the life of 23-year-old Edgardo Reyes-Rivera of Denham Springs and 35-year-old Jonathon Puente of Beaumont, Texas.
The preliminary investigation revealed that a 2022 Toyota Camry, driven by Reyes-Rivera, was traveling north on LA Hwy 27. At the same time, a 2014 BMW 550i was traveling south on LA Hwy 27. For reasons still under investigation, the Toyota crossed the centerline into the southbound lane and struck the BMW head-on.
Reyes-Rivera, who was unrestrained at the time of the crash, sustained serious injuries. He was transported to a nearby hospital, where he later died. Puente, who was properly restrained, sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene.
Standard toxicology samples were collected from both drivers and submitted for analysis. This crash remains under investigation.
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. Additionally, while not all crashes are survivable, proper use of seat belts can greatly decrease the chances of serious injury or death. Always ensure every occupant is properly restrained.
Contact Information:
Trooper Roy Jones
Louisiana State Police
Public Affairs Section – Troop D
Office: (337) 491-2511