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The preliminary investigation led Troopers to determine that the crash occurred as a white Chevrolet truck was traveling eastbound on LA 436 approaching a curve in the roadway. For reasons still under investigation, the white Chevrolet truck traveled into the westbound lane directly into the path of an oncoming black 2003 Chevrolet Silverado driven by 41 –year-old Wade D. Smith of Franklinton. The front of the black Silverado crashed into the driver’s side door of the white Chevrolet truck. After the impact, both vehicles caught fire.

Several residents near the crash heard the collision and responded to assist the drivers. Brandon Holubar, Byron Graham and Shane Thomas were three of the first on-scene. Graham had been traveling on LA 436 when he came upon the crash scene. Both vehicles were on fire when the three arrived. According to witnesses, the white Chevrolet truck was fully engulfed in flames and the black Silverado had flames in the engine compartment. Despite the fire, the three men entered the cab of the black Silverado to assist the trapped driver. Even though Smith, the driver of the Silverado, was wearing his seatbelt, he had sustained severe injuries in the crash. The three men were able to remove Smith from his truck before it also became fully engulfed in flames.

After the Washington Parish Fire Department extinguished the fires, investigators discovered the remains of the yet to be identified driver inside the white Chevrolet truck. Troopers are presently working with the Washington and St. Tammany Parish Coroner’s Office to identify the driver and notify the next of kin. Wade Smith was transported to North Oaks Health Systems with moderate injuries. Blood samples were collected from both drivers. The samples will be sent to the crime lab for analysis. The crash investigation is ongoing.

Troopers commend the neighbors and motorists whose quick and heroic actions prevented an already tragic crash from becoming worse. While the cause of this crash remains under investigation, Troopers would like to remind motorists of the importance of safe decisions behind the wheel. Please take a moment to remind your loved ones to always wear their seatbelt, avoid distractions and never drive impaired. The conversation you have today could be the difference tomorrow.

Contact Information:

S/T Dustin Dwight
Louisiana State Police Troop L
Public Affairs Section
Office: (985) 893-6250
dustin.dwight@la.gov
www.LSP.org
www.facebook.com/LouisianaStatePolice