Ville Platte, LA (November 29, 2024) – Emergency responders from Ville Platte rushed to the scene of a fatal crash that occurred on Thanksgiving morning, involving two vehicles on Louisiana Highway 13 near Gradney Lane. Louisiana State Police are currently investigating the cause of the collision, which left one woman dead and several others injured.
According to the preliminary investigation, the crash occurred when 20-year-old Kimberly Thomas, a Ville Platte resident, attempted to make a U-turn in the roadway. As Thomas made the maneuver, her vehicle was struck by a truck traveling south on the highway. The impact caused severe damage to the driver’s side door of Thomas’ car. Tragically, Thomas was not wearing a seatbelt at the time of the accident and was pronounced dead at the scene by emergency medical personnel.
Medics and fire crews worked to assist those suffering from injuries after the collision. Thomas’ passenger, along with the driver of the truck, both sustained moderate to severe injuries and were taken to a nearby hospital for treatment. Neither individual was wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash.
At this time, the investigation into the crash is ongoing, and Louisiana State Police have yet to release further details regarding the cause of the incident. Our thoughts are with the families and loved ones affected by this tragic accident.
Car Accidents in Louisiana
Louisiana’s roadways have seen a number of accidents this year, with Thanksgiving weekend bringing additional risks. While many drivers are aware of the dangers of traveling during the holiday season, the unpredictability of other drivers’ actions often leads to accidents that could have been prevented. This tragic incident highlights the importance of seatbelt usage, as Kimberly Thomas’ failure to buckle up contributed to the fatality.
Local authorities urge all drivers and passengers to ensure they are properly secured in their vehicles at all times. According to Louisiana State Police, not wearing a seatbelt is a leading factor in many serious and fatal accidents across the state. In this case, both the passenger in Thomas’ car and the driver of the truck were also unbuckled, and both are now dealing with injuries that range from moderate to severe.
The holidays bring heavier traffic, as family gatherings and travel become a common part of the festivities. Unfortunately, drivers may not always anticipate dangerous maneuvers, such as U-turns, in busy traffic. This accident, along with the growing number of similar incidents across Louisiana, reinforces the need for vigilance on the road.
Local authorities continue to investigate the circumstances of the crash and will provide updates as more information becomes available. In the meantime, they encourage drivers to stay aware, drive defensively, and always use their seatbelts.
If you or someone you know has been involved in an accident, it’s important to seek help immediately. Local accident reports can provide valuable assistance during these difficult times.