In Franklinton on Sunday, July 26, a fatal crash occurred shortly before 10 p.m. on Louisiana Highway 16 near the intersection of Louisiana Highway 450 in Washington Parish. The crash claimed the life of 84-year-old Majorie Orr of River Ridge and 35-year-old Justin Farley of Dubach.

Crash scene investigators determined that Farley was operating a Nissan Maxima eastbound on Louisiana Highway 16. Cynthia Stokes was driving a Chevrolet Silverado westbound on Highway 16. As Farley entered a right hand curve, his vehicle traveled completely into the westbound travel lane of Highway 16.  On-scene evidence suggested to state troopers that Farley ran off the left side of the roadway and overcorrected to the right. After re-entering the westbound lanes, Farley’s vehicle was struck on the driver’s side by Stokes’ vehicle. The impact severed Farley’s vehicle in two separate pieces.

Despite being restrained at the time of the crash, Farley was ejected from his vehicle.  Farley sustained severe injuries and was pronounced deceased on scene by the Washington Parish Coroner’s Office. Majorie Orr was a passenger in Stokes’ vehicle. She suffered severe injuries in the crash and was transported to NorthOaks Hospital in critical condition. Shortly after arriving at North Oaks, Orr succumbed to her injuries.

Troopers suspect Farley was impaired at the time of the crash. Blood samples were obtained and were sent to the Louisiana State Police Crime Lab. Stokes provided a voluntary breath sample with no trace amounts of alcohol present.    

Troopers urge all travelers on our roadways to remember that motor vehicle crashes are violent and sudden events with often life changing consequences. Drivers and passengers are urged to take all precautions including always being properly restrained, never driving while impaired or fatigued, and avoiding all distractions, especially the temptations of electronic devices.  Through proper vigilance, proactive safety measures, and responsible decisions while behind the wheel, motorists can do their part to prevent serious injury and fatal crashes across the state.