Coushatta, La. (11/2/2026) – A Coushatta man was killed in a Natchitoches Parish crash early Thursday morning, according to Louisiana State Police.
Louisiana State Police Troop E responded to a single-vehicle crash on I-49 north of Natchitoches at about 1:11 a.m. on January 1, 2026. The crash claimed the life of 42-year-old Chad White of Coushatta.
Investigators said White was driving a 2025 Kia northbound on I-49. For reasons still under investigation, the vehicle left the travel lane. It then struck a private contractor arrow board before exiting the roadway.
After the impact, the Kia overturned. White was ejected from the vehicle during the crash.
Troopers confirmed White was not wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash. He suffered severe injuries and was transported to a local medical facility. Doctors later pronounced him dead.
Meanwhile, a passenger in the vehicle was properly restrained. That passenger sustained only minor injuries.
As part of the investigation, troopers collected a toxicology sample from White. Authorities submitted the sample for laboratory analysis.
State Police continue to stress the importance of seat belt use. While not all crashes are survivable, seat belts significantly reduce the risk of death and serious injury.
Ensuring every occupant is properly restrained can often mean the difference between life and death.
Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s deputies, Natchitoches Regional Medical Center EMS, and Natchitoches Parish Fire Protection District #6 assisted at the scene.
Anyone with additional information may contact Louisiana State Police Troop E Public Affairs.
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