Published: 04-12-2026 | Category: Troop G
Benton – On April 11, 2026, at approximately 8:15 p.m., Troopers from Louisiana State Police Troop G responded to a single-vehicle crash on Merritt Road near Merry Lane. The crash claimed the lives of 10-year-old Bella Cassell and 31-year-old Callie Durbin, both of Benton.
The preliminary investigation revealed that a 2012 Polaris Ranger Utility Terrain Vehicle (UTV), driven by Cassell, was traveling east on Merritt Road. For reasons still under investigation, the UTV exited the roadway and overturned. This action caused all occupants to be ejected.
Cassell, who was unrestrained and not wearing a DOT-approved helmet at the time of the crash, sustained severe injuries and was transported to a local hospital, where she was pronounced deceased. Durbin, who was unrestrained in the front passenger seat and not wearing a DOT-approved helmet, sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene. A juvenile passenger, who was unrestrained in the front seat and not wearing a DOT-approved helmet, sustained moderate injuries and was transported to a local hospital for treatment.
Impairment is not suspected; however, standard toxicology samples were collected and submitted for analysis. This crash remains under investigation.
Louisiana State Police wish to remind the public to avoid operating UTVs on public roadways. Additionally, wearing a seat belt and a DOT-approved helmet while in a UTV can significantly reduce your chance of being severely injured or killed in a crash. For more information on Louisiana State Law about UTV operation, visit Legis.la.gov- Off-road vehicles; utility terrain vehicles
Contact Information:
Trooper Eddie Thomas
Louisiana State Police
Public Affairs Section-Troop G
Office: (318) 741-7411
[email protected]