DeSoto Parish – On July 24, 2021, just after 10:00 p.m., Troopers assigned to Louisiana State Police Troop G began investigating a fatal crash involving a pedestrian on Red Bluff Road, east of U.S. Highway 171. The crash claimed the life of 17-year-old Jasilyn Grimes.

The initial investigation revealed that a 2005 Dodge Ram pickup, driven by 23-year-old Noah Roberts, of Keithville, was traveling eastbound on Red Bluff Road. At the same time, Grimes and another pedestrian were walking in a dark area, on Red Bluff Road. As Roberts traveled over a hill crest, he struck Grimes.

Roberts was not injured in the crash. Grimes was transported to a Ochsner LSU Health Shreveport, where she was pronounced dead.

Impairment is not suspected to be a factor in this crash; however, routine toxicology samples were taken and submitted for analysis. The crash remains under investigation.

When walking near a roadway always make yourself visible to drivers by wearing bright/light colored clothing and reflective materials. Pedestrians that are walking at night should try to carry a flashlight for added safety. A person should always walk on a sidewalk, but if there is not a sidewalk available, you should always walk on the shoulder or if no shoulder is available, as close to the roadway edge facing traffic.

In 2021, Troop G Troopers have investigated, 20 fatal crashes, resulting in 21 deaths.