Rapides Parish – On November 2, 2022, at approximately 6:00 a.m., Louisiana State Police Troop E responded to a two-vehicle crash on Louisiana Highway 28 West near White Oak Lane. The crash claimed the life of 41-year-old Nicolas Nichols of Boyce.

The initial investigation revealed that a 2014 Toyota, driven by a 16-year-old juvenile, was westbound on Louisiana Highway 28 West. For reasons still under investigation, the juvenile maneuvered into the median crossover and attempted to turn left onto White Oak Lane. This action placed the Toyota in the direct travel path of an eastbound 2019 Suzuki, driven by Nichols, which resulted in a collision.

As a result of the crash, Nichols sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased on the scene. The juvenile, who was restrained, sustained minor injuries and was transported to a local hospital. A toxicology sample was obtained and submitted for analysis. This crash remains under investigation.

In 2022, Troop E Troopers have investigated 47 fatal crashes, resulting in 49 fatalities.