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Pine Grove – On Wednesday afternoon, shortly after 12:45 p.m., Troopers from Louisiana State Police Troop L began investigating a two-vehicle fatal crash on LA Hwy 16, near LA Hwy 449, in St. Helena Parish. The crash claimed the lives of 36-year-old Christopher Koch of Metairie and 51-year-old Travis Connell of Denham Springs.  

The initial investigation revealed that a 2010 Chrysler Town & Country, driven by Koch, was westbound on LA Hwy 16. At the same time, a 2004 Freightliner CST112 was eastbound on LA Hwy 16. For reasons still under investigation, the Chrysler traveled across the centerline and struck the Freightliner. 

Despite being properly restrained, Koch sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased on the scene. Koch’s passenger, Connell, was not properly restrained and sustained fatal injuries. He was also pronounced deceased on the scene. The driver of the Freightliner was properly restrained and sustained minor injuries. The driver of the Freightliner was transported to a local hospital. As part of the ongoing investigation, routine toxicology samples were obtained from both drivers for analysis. This crash remains under investigation.

 Troopers wish to remind motorists to always make good decisions while in a motor vehicle. Never drive impaired, fatigued or distracted, follow all traffic laws and always ensure every occupant is properly restrained. While not all crashes are survivable, taking simple precautions such as these can often mean the difference between life and death.