COURTESY LOYALTY SERVICE

Colonel Michael D. Edmonson, Superintendent

News Release

Date: December 15, 2009

Natchitoches Parish Fatal Crash

Just after midnight last night, a single vehicle crash has left a man from Natchitoches, La. dead.

Troopers responded to the crash around 12:30 am, which occurred on LA Hwy 494 near Franklin Lane. The crash involved a 2001 Ford Mustang, driven by Brian R. McGrath (W/M 26 yrs). The Ford was east bound on LA Hwy 494 when McGrath lost control and exited the right side of the roadway. After exiting the roadway, the vehicle collided with a fence and then a utility pole before overturning.

McGrath was pronounced dead. The crash remains under investigation. Routine toxicology tests are pending.

Troop E Troopers have investigated 68 fatal crashes for the year of 2009, resulting in 82 fatalities. Forty-three of the 57 fatal crashes (passenger vehicles only) have involved unrestrained motorists/occupants. It is unknown if the deceased was wearing a seatbelt in one crash. Six crashes have involved a motorcycle, three have involved a pedestrian, and two have involved an off road vehicle.

Contact:

S/T Scott Moreau

Louisiana State Police

Troop E Public Affairs

Office: (318) 487-5911