Accident claims life of Shreveport man in Richland Parish

A man from Shreveport died this morning after his vehicle was struck by an 18-wheeler in Richland Parish.

Shortly before 7:40 a.m., on Aug. 24, Troopers from Louisiana State Police Troop F responded to a two-vehicle fatal crash that occurred on Interstate 20 just east of Rayville. This crash took the life of 39-year-old Preston Jones of Shreveport.

The preliminary investigation by State Police revealed Jones was driving a 1997 Ford Explorer west on I-20 in the inside lane. A Kenworth 18-wheeler, driven by 37-year-old Jon Simmons of Cruger, MS, changed lanes in front of Jones’ vehicle.

As the 18-wheeler changed lanes the rear of the trailer struck the front of the Explorer causing it to spin out of control. The Explorer entered the median and began to rollover. Due to Jones not being restrained, he was ejected and taken to a local hospital where he later succumbed to his injuries.

A toxicology sample was obtained and will be submitted for analysis. Louisiana law requires vehicle occupants to be restrained in all seating positions, day and night. Wearing a seat belt on every trip, whether it’s short or long, is the most effective thing motorists can do to protect themselves in the event of a crash. Motorists are encouraged to always make the smart choice and to wear their seatbelt.

In 2015, Troop F has investigated 32 fatal crashes resulting in 34 deaths.