In a harrowing incident on Tuesday night, Webster Parish Deputy Sheriff Sgt. Aaron Barnes, 32, received severe injuries after being struck by a one-ton truck while aiding a stalled vehicle on US Hwy 371 just north of Dixie Inn. Barnes, a dedicated member of the department since 2018, was scheduled for surgery in a Shreveport hospital on Wednesday around noon, according to Sheriff Jason Parker.
The injuries sustained by Sgt. Barnes is extensive, including a broken tailbone, broken hip, fractured ankle, serious lacerations to his forehead and lower body, along with road rash. Regarding the injuries Barnes sustained, Sheriff Parker stated, “We are truly blessed that he survived his injuries. Really, it’s nothing short of a miracle.”
Sheriff Parker revealed that the Louisiana State Police are currently leading the investigation into the accident, which occurred on a section of US 371 with three lanes of traffic. The incident transpired around 7 PM as Barnes, donned in a high-visibility reflective vest and utilizing a flashlight, was directing traffic beside his vehicle in the northbound lane. A northbound truck struck him without slowing down, as reported by a witness driving behind the vehicle.
Parker emphasized the danger faced by officers working on scenes involving traffic accidents or stalled vehicles. “Some drivers do not pay attention to all the flashing lights and the officers who have to be in the roadway. It is a very dangerous situation with the potential for a tragedy, like this one,” he stated.
The response to the accident was swift, with units from various jurisdictions arriving at the scene to provide critical assistance. Sheriff Parker extended his gratitude to units from Sarepta PD, Dixie Inn PD, Minden PD, Cotton Valley PD, Sibley PD, and Doyline PD for their prompt assistance. Units from these jurisdictions also took over calls for assistance, allowing Webster Parish officers to focus on the unfolding situation.
As of now, the identity of the driver of the vehicle that struck Sgt. Barnes has not been released by state police investigators, and no charges have been reported. Tests were conducted at the scene to determine whether impairment played a role in the accident.
In a somewhat reassuring update, Sheriff Parker shared that Sgt. Barnes reached out on Wednesday morning to inform him of his condition. “He’s got a long way to go, and we’re praying for the best with his surgery. He’s strong and determined, and we’re looking forward to him coming back to us,” said Parker, expressing hope for Barnes’ recovery and return to duty.