Louisiana State Police Troop E responded to a one-vehicle crash on March 23 around 12:40 p.m. on Louisiana Highway 496 near Cooper Road.  This crash claimed the life of 61-year-old Maxwell Smith of DeRidder. 

The initial investigation revealed that a 2001 Harley Davidson motorcycle, driven by Smith, was westbound on Louisiana Highway 496. For reasons still under investigation, Smith failed to negotiate a left hand curve. As a result, the vehicle left the roadway, struck a curve warning sign, and sequentially ejected Smith from the vehicle.

Smith, who was wearing a non-DOT approved helmet, sustained severe injuries and was transported to a local hospital where he ultimately succumb to his injuries. Routine toxicology samples were collected and will be submitted for analysis. This crash remains under investigation.

Troopers encourage all riders to take an approved motorcycle safety course. These courses teach safe riding practices and help you apply safe riding strategies that can help reduce your chance of injury should a crash occur.

Making good choices while riding a motorcycle, such as never driving while impaired and obeying all traffic laws, can often mean the difference between life and death. If motorists witness hazardous situations they may dial *LSP (*577) to be connected to the nearest Troop to report that activity.

In 2024, Troop E Troopers have investigated 15 fatal crashes resulting in 17 fatalities.