Published: 08-23-2026 | Category: Fatal Crash
TROOP D NEWS RELEASE
August 23, 2026
Unrestrained Woman Killed in Single-Vehicle Calcasieu Parish Crash
Starks – On August 22, 2026, shortly after 6:00 p.m., Troopers with Louisiana State Police Troop D responded to a single-vehicle crash on Louisiana Highway 109 near Samuel Johnson Road. The crash claimed the life of 56-year-old Joann Fairchild of DeQuincy.
The preliminary investigation revealed that a 2017 Chevrolet Malibu, driven by Fairchild, was traveling north on LA Hwy 109. For reasons still under investigation, the Chevrolet entered the southbound lane in a marked no-passing zone to pass a northbound vehicle. As the Chevrolet attempted to return to the northbound lane, it exited the roadway and struck a utility pole.
Fairchild, who was unrestrained, sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene. Impairment is unknown at this time; however, a routine toxicology sample was obtained and will be submitted for analysis. This crash remains under investigation.
Passing in designated no-passing zones significantly increases the risk of serious and fatal crashes by limiting visibility and reducing the time available to react to oncoming traffic. Louisiana State Police urges all motorists to obey roadway markings, remain patient, and only pass when it is legal and safe to do so. Proper restraint use also significantly reduces the risk of serious injury or death in a crash. Louisiana law requires every occupant, regardless of seating position, to be properly restrained at all times.
Contact Information:
Trooper Roy Jones
Louisiana State Police
Public Affairs Section – Troop D
Office: (337) 491-2511