A Christmas Eve crash has claimed the life of a Kinder man.
State Police say John G. Lumas, 54, was pronounced dead at the scene of the crash on U.S. 190 in Allen Parish.
The crash happened at about 7:40 p.m. on the highway near it's intersection with La. 99.
The preliminary investigation revealed a 2016 Nissan Maxima, driven by a 22-year-old Elton man, was traveling west on US 190. For reasons still under investigation, the Nissan struck the rear of a 2011 Nissan Titan, being driven by Lumas. The impact caused Lumas to lose control of his vehicle and cross the center line into the opposing lane of travel. A 2017 Volvo tractor-trailer traveling east struck the Nissan Titan head-on.
Despite being properly restrained, Lumas sustained fatal injuries as a result of the crash and was pronounced deceased at the scene. The other two drivers were both properly restrained and not injured. Toxicology samples were obtained from both drivers and submitted for analysis. This crash remains under investigation.
Louisiana State Troopers would like to take this opportunity to remind motorists to always make good decisions while operating motor vehicles. Never drive while impaired, fatigued, or distracted, always ensure every occupant is properly restrained, and follow all traffic laws. While not all crashes are survivable, taking simple precautions such as these can often mean the difference between life and death.
Troop D has investigated 30 fatal crashes resulting in 32 deaths in 2020.
