On May 6, 2025, at approximately 7:50 p.m., Troopers from Louisiana State Police Troop G responded to a two-vehicle crash on U.S. Highway 79 north of Louisiana Highway 518. The crash claimed the life of 55-year-old Cecilia Marston of Homer.
The preliminary investigation revealed that a 2017 Nissan Versa, driven by Marston, was traveling north on U.S. Highway 79. At the same time, a 2015 Freightliner Cascadia was traveling south on U.S. Highway 79. For reasons still under investigation, the Nissan crossed the centerline and collided with the Freightliner.
Marston, who was properly restrained, sustained severe injuries and was transported to a local hospital, where she was pronounced deceased. The driver of the Freightliner was properly restrained and sustained no injuries. Impairment on the part of Marston is not suspected; however, standard toxicology samples were collected and submitted for analysis. This crash remains under investigation.
Troopers often witness the tragic consequences of preventable crashes. Never operating a vehicle while impaired, fatigued, or distracted is essential, and always obey the posted speed limit. While not all crashes are survivable, taking these simple precautions can mean the difference between life and death.