Aggrostats

The initial investigation revealed a 2011 Polaris Ranger, driven by Rodrigues, was traveling westbound on LA Hwy 5. Rodrigues attempted to make a U-turn while traveling at a high rate of speed, which caused it to overturn. Rodrigues was not wearing a seat belt and was ejected during the crash. As a result, he suffered fatal injuries.

Impairment is not suspected to be a factor in the crash, but routine toxicology samples were submitted for analysis.

Troopers would like to stress the importance of utilizing proper safety equipment such as approved helmets and seat belts when operating any off-road vehicle. Additionally, it is dangerous and illegal to operate off-road vehicles (i.e. three-wheelers, four-wheelers, and other all-terrain vehicles) on any public roadway in this state.

Mansfield – The second crash also occurred on September 6, 2021, just before 6:00 p.m. Troopers assigned to Troop G began investigating a fatality crash involving a wrecker on I-49 northbound, at exit 172 (Mansfield / Grand Bayou). This crash claimed the lives of 44-year-old Christopher Moore of Mooringsport and 54-year-old Daguang Zhang of Arlington, Texas.

The initial investigation revealed Moore was driving a 2006 Peterbilt wrecker on I-49 northbound, towing a 2019 Freightliner truck. For reasons still under investigation, Moore exited the roadway and crashed into multiple trees. After this impact, the Peterbilt became engulfed in flames. Both Moore and Zhang suffered fatal injuries as a result of this crash.

Both crashes remain under investigation.

In 2021, Troop G has investigated 24 fatal crashes, resulting in 26 deaths.

Contact Information:
Tpr. Jonathan Odom
Louisiana State Police
Public Affairs Section
Office: (318) 741-7409
Jonathan.Odom2@la.gov