Friday night, shortly before 9:30 p.m., Troopers from State Police Troop L began investigating a fatal crash involving a bicyclist on LA Hwy 445 near Stepp Road in Tangipahoa Parish.
The crash claimed the life of 67 YO William Edwards Jr. of Ponchatoula.
The initial investigation revealed that Edwards Jr. was on a bicycle attempting to cross LA Hwy 445. At the same time, a 2003 Toyota Camry was northbound on LA Hwy 445. For reasons still under investigation, the bicycle traveled into the northbound lane of LA Hwy 445, directly into the path of the Toyota and was struck by the Toyota.
Edwards Jr. sustained fatal injuries as a result of the crash. He was pronounced deceased on the scene.
The driver of the Toyota was properly restrained and was uninjured. Routine toxicology samples were collected and will be submitted for analysis. This crash remains under investigation.
Louisiana State Troopers wish to remind bicyclists never to assume that a motorist can see them. Precautions, such as avoiding distractions and wearing an approved bicycle helmet and reflective materials, are vital in preventing crashes and avoiding injuries. Louisiana law requires bicyclists to remain as close to the right side of the roadway as practicable and obey all traffic laws.
