Mansfield – On Tuesday, July 19, 2022, at approximately 1:00 a.m., Troopers assigned to Louisiana State Police Troop G began investigating a one-vehicle fatality crash on US Hwy 84 at Buffalo Road. This crash claimed the life of 39-year-old Jason Viola, who was not wearing a seat belt.

The initial investigation revealed a 2009 Nissan Altima, driven by Viola was traveling east on US Hwy 84. For reasons still under investigation, he exited the roadway and struck a culvert before overturning.

Viola was not wearing a seat belt and was ejected from the vehicle. He suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased on the scene by the DeSoto Parish Coroner.

Impairment is suspected to be a factor in this crash. Routine toxicology samples were taken and submitted for analysis. The crash remains under investigation.

Time and time again, Troopers witness preventable motor vehicle crashes. Impairment and lack of seat belt usage are primary causes of crashes across the state of Louisiana. Louisiana State Police urge motorists to have a plan in place that includes a designated driver when consuming alcohol. Alcohol can impair visual ability, alter the sense of time and space, impair fine motor skills, and decrease reaction times. Alcohol can begin to impair a person’s ability to safely operate a motor vehicle after just one drink. Please choose not to drive impaired or ride with an impaired driver, and always buckle up.

In 2022, Troop G has investigated 22 fatal crashes, resulting in 23 deaths.