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On Tuesday, shortly after 5 a.m., Louisiana State Police Troop L began investigating a two-vehicle fatal crash on Louisiana Highway 16 east of Louisiana Highway 1054 in Tangipahoa Parish. The crash claimed the life of Drake L. Spears, 22, of Franklinton.

The initial investigation revealed that Spears was traveling westbound on Highway 16 in a 2018 Honda Accord when he crossed the center line in front of an eastbound 2017 Western Star 18-wheeler, according to Trooper Jeremy Price. Price said that the Honda impacted the 18-wheeler head on, causing it to exit the roadway, overturn, and catch fire. Spears reportedly sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased on the scene.

Price said that restraint use is unknown, due to the severity of damage to the vehicle. It is also unknown if impairment was a factor in causing the crash. As part of the ongoing investigation, a blood sample was taken from both drivers for scientific analysis, Price said.