Monroe Man Killed in Avoyelles Parish Crash

On March 4, 2024, at approximately 12:45 p.m., Louisiana State Police Troop E responded to a two-vehicle crash on I-49 near Milepost 53. The crash claimed the life of 39-year-old Lekedrick Bowden of Monroe.
The initial investigation revealed that a 2018 Cadillac, driven by Bowden, was traveling north on I-49. For reasons still under investigation, as Bowden attempted to pass a northbound commercial vehicle, he began to hydroplane and lost control of the vehicle. As a result, the vehicle rotated into the path of the commercial vehicle and was subsequently struck.
Bowden, who was restrained, sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. Three additional passengers, in the Cadillac, sustained minor injuries and were transported to a local hospital. The driver of the commercial vehicle, who was restrained, sustained no injuries. Routine toxicology samples were obtained and submitted for analysis. This crash remains under investigation.
Troopers would like to remind the public of the following: To avoid hydroplaning on the roadway, it is important to slow down when it's raining or there's water on the road. Make sure your tires have adequate tread depth and are properly inflated. Avoid using cruise control and sudden movements, such as braking or turning sharply. Lastly, if you do start to hydroplane, remain calm and ease off the accelerator until you regain control.
In 2024, Troop E has investigated eight fatal crashes, resulting in nine deaths.