Troopers with Louisiana State Police Troop F began investigating a fatal single-vehicle crash on Interstate 20 just west of Louisiana Highway 609 shortly after 6 p.m. on April 8.
The crash claimed the life of 66-year-old Natalie Phillips of Alexandria.
The initial investigation revealed that a 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee was traveling west on Interstate 20. For reasons still under investigation, the vehicle traveled off the right side of the roadway and struck a tree.
Phillips, who was the front-seat passenger and properly restrained, suffered fatal injuries and died at the scene. The driver, who was also properly restrained, sustained minor injuries.
Routine toxicology samples were collected and will be submitted for analysis. The crash remains under investigation.
Troopers remind motorists of the importance of making good decisions while operating motor vehicles. Never drive impaired, fatigued or distracted. Additionally, Louisiana law requires that every person inside a motor vehicle, regardless of seating position, be properly restrained at all times. While not all crashes are survivable, taking simple precautions like these can mean the difference between life and death.
