On Saturday, just after 2 p.m., Louisiana State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash which occurred on Interstate 20 east of LA Hwy 3074. The crash claimed the life of 68-year-old Steve Long of Simsboro.
The preliminary investigation revealed that a 2002 Nissan Xterra, driven by Long, was traveling west on Interstate 20. For reasons still under investigation, the Nissan exited the roadway and collided with a parked 2019 Freightliner.
Long, who was restrained, was pronounced deceased at Oschner LSU Health in Shreveport. The driver of the Freightliner was not injured.
Impairment is not suspected to be a factor; however, a toxicology sample was obtained and submitted for analysis. This crash remains under investigation.
Also on Saturday, just after 5 p.m., State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Diamond Lane near Ruston. This crash claimed the life of 62-year-old Herman Smith of Ruston.
The preliminary investigation revealed that a 1996 Buick LaSabre, driven by Smith, was traveling east on Diamond Lane. For reasons still under investigation, the Buick exited the roadway and impacted a parked and unoccupied Nissan Altima.
It is unknown if Smith was restrained. He was pronounced deceased by the Lincoln Parish Coroner.Diamond Lane is located just off Beacon Light Road.
Impairment is not suspected to be a factor; however, a toxicology sample was obtained and submitted for analysis. This crash remains under investigation.
