Unrestrained Driver Killed in Single-Vehicle Caldwell Parish Crash

Columbia - On Thursday, January 23, 2025, shortly before midnight, Troopers with Louisiana State Police Troop F began investigating a single-vehicle fatal crash on U.S. Highway 165 just north of Louisiana Highway 4. The crash claimed the life of 75-year-old Marshall Taylor of Columbia.

The initial investigation revealed that a 2000 Chevrolet Silverado, driven by Taylor, was traveling south on U.S. Highway 165. For reasons still under investigation, the Chevrolet traveled off the left side of the road and struck a utility pole.

Taylor, who was unrestrained, was pronounced dead at the scene. Although impairment is not suspected, routine toxicology samples were collected and will be submitted for analysis. This crash remains under investigation.

While not all crashes are survivable, statistics show that properly wearing your seat belt will dramatically reduce your chance of being severely injured or killed in a crash. Louisiana law requires that every person in a vehicle, regardless of seating position, always remain buckled up. Properly wearing your seat belt is one of the most effective ways to save your life and reduce injuries during crashes.

Contact Information:
TFC Ryan Davis
Louisiana State Police
Public Affairs Section
Office: (318) 345-2810
[email protected]