Vernon Parish, LA – Louisiana State Police (LSP) Troop E reported on March 4, 2023, at approximately 5:00 a.m., Troopers responded to a fatal crash on U.S. Highway 171 south of Louisiana Highway 3226. This crash killed 39-year-old Marvin Bolton Jr. of Deridder.
The initial investigation revealed that Bolton Jr. was walking in the roadway when struck by a southbound vehicle. After the initial crash, Bolton Jr. remained in the roadway when a southbound 2018 GMC pickup truck struck him a second time. As a result of the second crash, Bolton Jr. sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced dead on the scene.
Routine toxicology tests are pending. The crash remains under investigation.
Pedestrians should always make themselves visible to drivers by wearing bright/light-colored clothing and reflective materials. Pedestrians should always walk on a sidewalk, but if no sidewalk is available, they should walk as close to the roadway edge as possible and face traffic. Pedestrians should carry a flashlight for added safety if they walk at night.
In 2023, Troop E Troopers investigated eight fatal crashes resulting in eight fatalities.
