Shreveport Woman Killed in Rapides Parish Crash

On March 30, 2024, at approximately 9:45 a.m., Louisiana State Police Troop E responded to a two-vehicle crash on Louisiana Highway 28 West at St. Clair Road. This crash claimed the life of 68-year-old Emma Parsons of Shreveport.
The initial investigation revealed that a 2021 Ford Escape, driven by 73-year-old Charles Chandler Jr. of Nashville, AR, was preparing to cross Louisiana Highway 28 West from the median crossover. For reasons still under investigation, Chandler began crossing the eastbound travel lanes, but failed to yield to an eastbound 2018 Chevrolet Malibu. As a result, Chandler’s vehicle was struck by the Malibu.
Chandler, who was restrained, sustained moderate injuries and was transported to a local hospital. Parsons, who was a passenger in the Escape and who was restrained, sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene. The driver and a passenger in the Malibu, who also were restrained, sustained moderate injuries and were transported to a local hospital. Routine toxicology samples were obtained and submitted for analysis.
While the cause of this crash remains under investigation, distracted and inattentive driving continues to be a leading cause of crashes in our state. Louisiana State Police urges all motorists to stay alert while driving. A lapse in one’s awareness can have deadly consequences.
In 2024, Troop E Troopers have investigated 17 fatal crashes resulting in 19 fatalities.