Zachary Man Killed in Two-Vehicle Crash in East Baton Rouge Parish

TROOP A NEWS RELEASE
November 15, 2024

Baton Rouge – Shortly after 6:30 a.m. on November 15, 2024, Troopers with Louisiana State Police Troop A responded to a two-vehicle crash on US 61, just south of LA 964 in East Baton Rouge Parish. The crash claimed the life of 44-year-old Leandrew Coates of Zachary.

The preliminary investigation revealed that a 2003 Nissan 350Z, driven by Coates, was traveling southbound on US 61, just south of LA 964 at a high rate of speed. At the same time, a 2023 Mack dump truck was traveling northbound on US 61, and was making a left turn into a private drive. As a result, the Nissan collided with the passenger side of the Mack dump truck.

Coates was unrestrained and was pronounced deceased on the scene. The driver of the Mack truck was properly restrained and was uninjured. Impairment is not a suspected factor in this crash, however, standard toxicology samples will be taken and submitted for analysis. This crash is still under investigation.

Troopers wish to remind motorists to always make good decisions while in a motor vehicle. Never drive impaired, fatigued, or distracted; follow all traffic laws, and always ensure every occupant is properly restrained. While not all crashes are survivable, taking simple precautions such as these can often mean the difference between life and death.

Contact Information:
Trooper Shelby Mayfield
Louisiana State Police
Public Affairs Section – Troop A
Phone: (225) 921-1384
[email protected]