On Tuesday, September 25, a crash involving two vehicles seriously injured a young man from Many. He later died from those injuries.
Troopers responded to the crash around 5:25 p.m., which occurred on Highway 191 at Highway 1215. The crash involved a 2005 Ford Taurus, driven by James Moss, 22, and a 2017 Ford Expedition, driven by Gretchen Wilkerson, 39, of Many. The Taurus was northbound on Highway 191, approaching Highway 1215, when Moss turned left and entered the southbound lane. This action placed his vehicle in the direct travel path of the southbound Expedition, which resulted in a collision.
Moss received serious injuries and was transported to University Health in Shreveport for treatment. Later, at around 9:00 p.m., he was pronounced dead. It is unknown if he was wearing a seat belt.
Wilkerson was wearing her seat belt but received minor injuries. She was transported to Sabine Medical Center for treatment.
Routine toxicology tests are pending. The crash remains under investigation.
The family of James Moss has set up a GoFundMe account to help with funeral expenses. Those wishing to donate may visit https://www.gofundme.com/funeral-expenses-for-james-moss.
While not all crashes are survivable, seat belts can greatly decrease the occupant’s chance of death and will greatly reduce the extent of injury.
In 2018, Troop E has investigated 35 fatal crashes resulting in 38 deaths.