Louisiana State Police is investigating a fatal pedestrian crash in St. Helena Parish.
Troop L is looking into the crash that killed Greensburg resident Damarus Melvin, 22, shortly after 4:15 a.m. on Aug. 16 near Carl Day Lane.
Authorities say Melvin was wearing dark clothes and walking in the northbound lane of LA Hwy 1043. At the same time, a Dodge Ram was traveling northbound on LA Hwy 1043 and for reasons unknown allegedly hit Melvin.
Melvin died at the scene. The Dodge Ram driver was uninjured. Toxicology samples were taken from both Melvin and the truck driver.
The crash remains under investigation.
LSP urges pedestrians and motorists to remain vigilant while on roadways and pay close attention to their surroundings. Crashes involving pedestrians can often be avoided by following some basic safety guidelines.
Pedestrians should wear light-colored or reflective clothing and always avoid walking on the roadway in dark areas. Pedestrians must also assume that approaching motorists cannot see them, especially at night. Crossing roadways only in well-lit, designated areas and always walking facing traffic will enhance pedestrians’ safety.
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