Mamou – Shortly after 6:00 a.m. on May 20, 2020, Louisiana State Police Troop I was notified of a two-vehicle fatal crash on LA Hwy 13 near Gilbert Road in Evangeline Parish. The crash took the life of 31-year-old Joseph Lee Willis of Ville Platte.
The preliminary investigation revealed a 2016 Chevrolet Sonic, driven by Willis, was traveling South on LA 13. At the same time, a 2000 Peterbilt 18-wheeler was traveling North on LA 13. For reasons still under investigation, Willis crossed the center lines into the path of the Peterbilt. The driver of the Peterbilt then took evasive action by steering left. Willis, then, swerved back into the southbound lane and struck the 18-wheeler head-on.
Troopers determined Willis was unrestrained and suffered fatal injuries. He was pronounced dead at the scene by the Evangeline Parish Coroner’s Office. The driver of the Peterbilt was restrained and was not injured. Toxicology samples were taken from the drivers and results are pending. This crash still remains under investigation.