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Central – On October 20, 2022, shortly after 4:30 pm, Troopers with Louisiana State Police Troop A began investigating a single-vehicle crash on LA 37 north of LA 409 in East Baton Rouge Parish. The crash ultimately claimed the life of 53-year-old Mark Anthony Phillips of Baton Rouge.

The initial investigation revealed that Phillips was driving a 2020 Toyota Tacoma headed south on LA 37.   For reasons still being investigated, Phillips failed to negotiate a left hand curve, ran off the road to the right, and entered the ditch prior to striking a standing tree.

Phillips, who was properly restrained at the time of the crash, suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene.  While impairment is not suspected, routine toxicology samples were taken and results are pending.

Troopers encourage motorists to always make safe choices while in a motor vehicle.  Never drive impaired, fatigued, or distracted. Always follow traffic laws and ensure that every occupant is properly restrained.  Not all crashes are survivable, but taking simple precautions such as those mentioned can often be the difference between life and death.