The state transportation department is mourning the death of a DOTD worker killed while working Wednesday afternoon on an asphalt project in DeSoto Parish on U.S. Highway 171. State Police Trooper Jonathan Odom says 35-year-old Christopher Gray of Lake Charles was killed after an empty log truck driven by 42-year-old Charles Barker of Florein hit two DOTD vehicles.
“Barker’s vehicle struck a 2015 Ford dump truck,” said Odom. “Gray was standing behind the Ford and was also struck.”
Barker and two other DOTD workers, Jalen Singleton and Mario Ross were injured in the crash. Gray was pronounced dead at the scene.
Odom says as of now, the driver of the log truck has NOT been charged.
“Routine toxicology samples were taken and submitted for analysis,” said Odom. “The crash remains under investigation.”
Odom says they are not sure exactly what caused this fatal three-vehicle crash, but they ask motorists to obey the speed limit and avoid all distractions while driving.
“Our deepest sympathies go out to Chris Gray’s family. Chris was diligently doing his job for the citizens of our state when this heartbreaking incident occurred,” said DOTD Secretary Shawn D. Wilson, Ph.D. “Having to inform the loved ones of somebody killed in a preventable accident is by far the most difficult part of being secretary. We wish a speedy recovery to Jalen Singleton, who was seriously injured, and we are thankful that Mario Ross was released from medical care. The department can’t stress enough the importance of not driving distracted, especially in an active construction zone. Pay attention to your surroundings and slow down when you see workers and equipment…not only for their safety, but also for yours.”
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