Louisiana State Police Troop D responded to the crash, which claimed the life of Corey James Anderson.

The preliminary investigation revealed Anderson and the other pedestrian were both walking in the eastbound lane of travel on La. 3059. At the same time, the driver of a 2009 Dodge pickup truck, traveling east, struck both pedestrians. At the time of the crash, both pedestrians were wearing dark-colored clothing.

Anderson sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. The second pedestrian sustained moderate injuries and was transported to a Lake Charles area hospital. The driver of the Dodge was not injured.

Toxicology samples were obtained from Anderson and the driver of the Dodge and will be submitted for analysis. This crash remains under investigation.

Troopers urge all pedestrians to maintain a heightened level of awareness while walking near the road.

Simple precautions such as wearing reflective materials, avoiding distractions, and walking a safe distance from travel lanes while facing oncoming traffic could help prevent many pedestrian related crashes. Pedestrians must also assume that approaching motorists cannot see them, especially at night.

Troop D has investigated 30 fatal crashes resulting in 33 deaths in 2023.