Published: 01-21-2026 | Category: Troop F
Brownsville– On Tuesday, January 20, 2026, shortly after 9:00 p.m., Troopers with Louisiana State Police Troop F began investigating a single-vehicle fatal crash involving a pedestrian on Louisiana Highway 617 (Thomas Road) just south of Old Natchitoches Road. The crash claimed the life of 48-year-old Aaron O’Donnell.
The preliminary investigation revealed that a 2002 Hyundai Santa Fe was traveling south on Thomas Road. At the same time, O’Donnell, who was wearing dark clothing, was crossing Thomas Road from west to east. For reasons still under investigation, O’Donnell was struck by the Hyundai.
O’Donnell received serious injuries. He was transported to an area hospital, where he later died. The driver of the Hyundai was properly restrained and uninjured. Although impairment is not suspected, routine toxicology samples were collected and will be submitted for analysis. This crash remains under investigation.
Louisiana State Police urge both pedestrians and motorists to remain alert and aware of their surroundings while on or near roadways. Crashes involving pedestrians are often preventable when basic safety measures are observed. Pedestrians are encouraged to wear reflective clothing, utilize well-lit areas, walk facing oncoming traffic, and minimize distractions.
Contact Information:
ST Ryan Davis
Louisiana State Police
Public Affairs Section
Office: (318) 345-2810
[email protected]