Livingston Parish, LA – A deadly crash claimed the life of an Independence man on Monday, sparking an urgent investigation by the Louisiana State Police. The incident occurred just before 6:00 p.m. on LA 43 near Turkey Creek Road.
According to authorities, 47-year-old Raymond Lexia Jr. was driving a Ford Ranger when a Chevrolet Tahoe driven by Mitchell Ballard, 35, veered off the road, overcorrected, and struck Lexia’s vehicle head-on. Lexia was properly restrained but died at the scene. Ballard, who was not properly restrained, suffered minor injuries.
Ballard was later arrested and charged with negligent homicide and careless operation. Police emphasize the importance of proper seatbelt use and cautious driving. “While not all crashes are survivable, simple precautions can make the difference between life and death,” troopers urged.
This tragic incident remains under investigation, with toxicology results pending. Drivers are reminded to avoid distractions and fatigue, ensuring safety on the roads. For more updates, stay tuned to local reports.
