TANGIPAHOA PARISH, LA — A devastating two-vehicle crash on Saturday, January 4, resulted in the death of a local man and left five others seriously injured. The collision occurred around 4 p.m. on Highway 16 near Dummyline Road, as confirmed by the Louisiana State Police.
The incident involved a Chevrolet Silverado and a Chevrolet Equinox. Investigators determined that 60-year-old Roderick E. Brumfield, the driver of the Silverado, was traveling eastbound when his vehicle veered across the centerline. This unexpected maneuver led to a head-on collision with the Equinox, which was traveling westbound.
Brumfield, a Tangipahoa Parish resident, was properly restrained at the time of the crash. Despite this, the severity of the impact resulted in fatal injuries, and he was pronounced dead at the scene. The Equinox’s driver, along with four passengers, sustained significant injuries and were transported to a local hospital for emergency medical care. Their current conditions remain undisclosed.
The Louisiana State Police are conducting a thorough investigation to uncover the factors that caused Brumfield to cross into oncoming traffic. Toxicology samples were taken from both drivers and will undergo analysis as part of the standard investigative procedure. Results from these tests may shed further light on the circumstances surrounding the tragic collision.
Authorities have used this incident as a somber reminder of the importance of attentiveness and safety on the roads. “It only takes a moment of distraction or error to lead to irreversible consequences,” a State Police spokesperson emphasized. They urge all drivers to remain focused and exercise caution, especially on highways prone to high-speed travel.
The investigation into this fatal crash is ongoing. Louisiana State Police encourage anyone with additional information to come forward to assist in piecing together the events leading to this tragedy. Updates will be provided as new details emerge, offering insight into the case and its contributing factors.