Saline – Earlier today, just before 9:00 a.m., Troopers assigned to Louisiana State Police Troop G began investigating a one-vehicle fatality crash on LA Hwy 9, just south of LA Hwy 155. This crash claimed the life of 47-year-old David Choate, who was not wearing a seat belt.

The initial investigation revealed a 2008 Mercury Sable, driven by Choate, was traveling north on LA Hwy 9. For reasons still under investigation, Choate ran off the roadway then traveled through a ditch and struck a tree.

Choate, who was not restrained, suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased on the scene by the Bienville Parish Coroner.

Impairment is not suspected to be a factor in this crash; however, routine toxicology samples were taken and submitted for analysis. The 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 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 in crashes.

In 2022, Troop G has investigated nine fatal crashes, resulting in 10 deaths.