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Source: http://lsp.org/news_detail.html?id=1021

id cleanReleaseDate troopName title
1021 2012-12-19 Troop A Pedestrian Struck and Killed on LA 16 in Denham Springs

TROOP A NEWS RELEASE
December 19, 2012
Pedestrian Struck and Killed on LA 16 in Denham Springs

Denham Springs - This evening shortly after 7:15 pm, Troopers from Louisiana State Police Troop A began investigating a single vehicle fatal crash involving a pedestrian that occurred on LA Hwy 16 near Eastover Blvd. in Livingston Parish. The incident took the life of 69 year old John L. Barker of Denham Springs.

The initial investigation by State Police revealed that prior to the crash 32 year old Kenneth Paola, Jr. was traveling westbound on LA Hwy 16 in a 2006 Chevrolet van. At the same time, Barker attempted to cross LA Hwy 16 and walked directly into the vehicle’s path. Paola attempted to avoid striking Barker, but was unable to do so. Barker was struck by Paola’s vehicle, ultimately causing fatal injuries.

Troopers suspect impairment on the part of Barker to have been a factor in the crash, and have submitted a toxicology sample to the Louisiana State Police Crime Lab for analysis. Impairment on the part of Paola is not suspected.

Crashes involving pedestrians can often be avoided by following some basic safety guidelines. Pedestrians should wear light-colored or reflective clothing and should always avoid walking on the roadway in dark areas. Pedestrians must also assume that approaching motorists cannot see them, especially at night. Crossing roadways only in well-lit, designated areas and always walking facing traffic will enhance the safety for pedestrians.

Contact Information:
TFC Jared L. Sandifer
Louisiana State Police
Public Affairs Unit
Office: (225) 754-8524
jared.sandifer@dps.la.gov
www.LSP.org
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