Avoyelles Parish, LA (3/29/2024) – Louisiana State Police Troop E responded to a tragic two-vehicle crash on Louisiana Highway 107 at Laura’s Lane today, March 29, 2024, at approximately 11:50 a.m.
The collision resulted in the loss of 58-year-old Joyce James of Marksville.
According to the initial investigation, a 2004 Toyota pickup truck, driven by 66-year-old Terry Lagrange of Cottonport, was traveling south on Louisiana Highway 107. Lagrange attempted to overtake a southbound vehicle for reasons still under investigation but failed to yield to a northbound 2014 Kia Sorento. The Toyota collided head-on with the Kia.
Lagrange and a passenger in the Toyota, both of whom were unrestrained, sustained moderate injuries and were transported to a local hospital. The driver of the Kia, who was properly restrained, also suffered moderate injuries and was transported to a local hospital. Tragically, Joyce James, a passenger in the Kia who was unrestrained, sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene. Routine toxicology samples were collected and submitted for analysis as part of the ongoing investigation.
Louisiana State Police emphasize the importance of seat belt usage, stating that while not all crashes are survivable, proper restraint greatly reduces the risk of death or severe injury. In 2024, Troop E has investigated 16 fatal crashes, resulting in 18 deaths.
Cite: Louisiana State Police, Troop E, PIO
