The DeSoto Parish Sheriff’s Office is mourning the death of one of their deputies who died in a two-vehicle crash on US Highway 84. State Trooper Brent Hardy says LSP responded Wednesday morning to a collision between a 2008 Jeep Cherokee and an unmarked Ford Crown Victoria.
“The crash claimed the life of a DeSoto Parish deputy. Deputy Donna Richardson-Below. The initial investigation revealed there was heavy rain at the time of the crash,” said Trooper Brent Hardy.
The crash happened west of LA Highway 3248. Toxicology samples were obtained and submitted for analysis. Hardy says the Jeep driven by 33-year-old Richard Wimer of Stonewall was entering a curve while traveling east on US Highway 84 while at the same time, the unmarked patrol unit was traveling westbound.
“For reasons still under investigation, Mr. Wimer lost control of his vehicle and crossed a double-yellow line which resulted in a collision between the deputy’s vehicle and Mr. Wimer’s,” said Hardy.
Deputy Richardson-Below was properly restrained and was pronounced dead on the scene. Wimer, who was unrestrained, received moderate injuries and was transported to a local hospital.
Hardy says seeing an officer killed on Louisiana roadways adds an extra layer of tragedy to the situation for those responding to the crash.
“No law enforcement officer wants to work a fatal crash that involves anyone, especially someone else who is involved in law enforcement. At Louisiana State Police, our hearts go out to DeSoto Parish,” said Hardy.
Hardy reminds drivers to use caution when driving in inclement weather and says state law allows law enforcement to ticket those driving too fast for road conditions. Deputy Richardson-Below was 43 years old.
