Derry, LA (5/2/2024) – A 13-year-old juvenile was airlifted to a regional trauma center with serious injuries following an all-terrain vehicle crash near Derry, according to Natchitoches Parish Sheriff Stuart Wright.
At approximately 5:23 pm on Wednesday, May 1, 2024, emergency responders rushed to the scene on Cat Island Road near Derry after receiving reports of an ATV crash with injuries. Among those who responded were Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Deputies, Louisiana State Police, Natchitoches Parish Fire Protection District #1 First Responders, and Natchitoches Regional Medical Center EMS.
Upon arrival, deputies and EMS found the juvenile suffering from serious injuries. An Air EVAC medical helicopter was dispatched to the crash site and landed at a designated zone in a field near the intersections of La. Hwy 1 and La. Hwy 119 in Derry.
Preliminary investigations suggest that the 13-year-old Derry juvenile, operating a 1990s model Honda ATV, was traveling northbound on Cat Island Road when he entered a curve. For reasons still under investigation, the ATV veered off the road, traveled down a steep embankment, and struck a tree. The juvenile, who was not wearing a safety helmet, was ejected upon impact.
Fortunately, the juvenile’s brother, who was riding as a passenger, escaped uninjured and ran to EMS Paramedic Larry Atteredge’s residence nearby to seek help.
The ATV came to rest in Cane River after the impact, prompting a coordinated effort by NPSO deputies, NPFD #1, EMS, and private citizens to mobilize and transport the injured juvenile up a 30-foot embankment to an awaiting trauma unit at the scene.
The investigation is ongoing, led by Troopers assigned to LSP Troop-E Alexandria.
Deputies remind riders that riding ATVs on public roadways is illegal and urge all riders to wear safety equipment and avoid distractions.
“We extend our prayers to the juvenile, his family, and hope for a full recovery,” said an NPSO spokesperson.
