Franklin Parish, La. (9/26/2023) – On Tuesday, September 26, 2023, shortly after 2:00 p.m., Troopers with Louisiana State Police Troop F began investigating a single-vehicle fatal crash on LA Hwy 865 near Cowart Road. The crash claimed the life of 48-year-old Katheryn Ferard of Rayville.
The preliminary investigation revealed that a 2004 GMC Yukon, driven by Ferard, was traveling north on LA Hwy 865. For reasons still under investigation, Ferard ran off the right side of the road. Ferard attempted to regain control of the GMC by steering to the left, but over corrected causing the truck to travel off the left side of the roadway and strike a tree.
Ferard, who was unrestrained, was ejected and pronounced dead at the scene. Impairment is a suspected factor in this crash. Routine toxicology samples were collected and will be submitted for analysis. This crash remains 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.
In 2023, Troop F has investigated 28 fatal crashes, resulting in 33 deaths.
