Two separate one-vehicle crashes in Avoyelles Parish over the weekend claimed the lives of two residents, according to Louisiana State Police Troop E.
The first crash occurred Sunday, July 26, 2026, at approximately 12:47 a.m. on Gum Ridge Road.
The initial investigation revealed that a 2022 Can-Am ATV, driven by 77-year-old James White of Moreauville, was traveling west on Gum Ridge Road. For reasons still under investigation, White lost control of the ATV, causing it to leave the roadway and overturn.
White sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. Routine toxicology samples were obtained and submitted for analysis.
Later Sunday evening, at approximately 9:24 p.m., Louisiana State Police Troop E responded to a one-vehicle fatal crash on Louisiana Highway 107.
The initial investigation revealed that a 2010 F-150, driven by 81-year-old Sidney Smith Jr. of Center Point, was traveling north on Louisiana Highway 107. For reasons still under investigation, Smith lost control of the vehicle, causing it to leave the roadway and impact a culvert.
Smith, who was not restrained, sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. Routine toxicology samples were obtained and submitted for analysis.
The cause of both crashes remains under investigation.
Louisiana State Police urged motorists to remain alert while driving, noting that distracted and inattentive driving continues to be a leading cause of crashes in the state. Troopers said a lapse in awareness can have deadly consequences.