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Franklinton – According to the Louisiana State Police’s Facebook Page, early this morning, shortly after midnight., Troopers with Louisiana State Police Troop L began investigating a two-vehicle crash on LA 16 east near Sunlight Road in Washington Parish. The crash ultimately claimed the lives of 43-year-old Robin Polk of Franklinton and 20-year-old Isabella Perez of Angie.   

The initial investigation revealed that Polk was driving a 2012 Nissan Altima headed west on LA 16.  At the same time, a 2013 BMW Mini Cooper driven by Perez, was headed east on LA 16.  For reasons still being investigated, Polk crossed the center line, entered the eastbound lane, and struck the Mini Cooper head-on.      

Polk, who was not restrained at the time of the crash, succumbed to her injuries at the scene.  Perez also suffered fatal injuries as a result of the crash and was pronounced deceased on the scene.  Restraint use is unknown for Perez.  As part of the ongoing investigation, a toxicology sample was obtained from both drivers and will be submitted for analysis. This crash remains under investigation. 

Nearly half of the fatal crashes in Louisiana are caused by impaired drivers.  Alcohol and other drugs affect your visual ability, fine motor skills, and reaction times.  Drivers should have a plan for a safe ride home before consuming any alcohol and/or drugs because if you feel different, you drive different.  Additionally, taking just 3 seconds to buckle up can greatly increase your chances of surviving a crash.  Drivers should ensure that all occupants are properly restrained in all seating positions, day or night.