WEBSTER PARISH, LA (September 1, 2021) – On Tuesday, August 31, 2021, just before 12:00 A.M., Troopers assigned to Louisiana State Police Troop G began investigating a single-vehicle fatality crash on U.S. Highway 371 near Thomasville Road.
This crash claimed the life of 26-year-old Seth Poole of Sarepta. He was not wearing a seat belt and the driver is suspected of being impaired.
The initial investigation revealed that 26-year-old Michael Allen Jr., of Springhill, was driving a 2006 Chevrolet Avalanche northbound on U.S. Hwy 371 near Thomasville Road.
For reasons still under investigation, Allen Jr. lost control and exited the roadway. After exiting the roadway, the vehicle began overturning.
Allen Jr. was restrained and only sustained minor injuries. Poole was ejected from the vehicle and pronounced dead at the scene.
Routine toxicology samples were collected and will be submitted for analysis. The crash remains under investigation.
Time and time again, Troopers witness preventable motor vehicle crashes. Impairment and lack of seat belt usage are primary causes of crashes across the state of Louisiana. Louisiana State Police urge motorists to have a plan in place that includes a designated driver when consuming alcohol. Alcohol can impair visual ability, alter the sense of time and space, impair fine motor skills, and decrease reaction times. Alcohol can begin to impair a person's ability to safely operate a motor vehicle after just one drink. Please choose to not drive impaired or ride with an impaired driver and always buckle up.
In 2021, Troop G Troopers have investigated, 21 fatal crashes, resulting in 22 deaths.
