Shreveport – On May 11, 2020, shortly before 2:00 a.m., Louisiana State Police Troop G began assisting Shreveport Police Department in dispersing large crowds of people suspected of participating in “street racing” activities in various locations.  As Troopers arrived at the Fair Grounds and were assisting SPD, a pursuit ensued which ended in a fatal crash.       

 

The initial investigation revealed Troopers attempted a traffic stop on a 2016 Chrysler 300 for reckless operation.  The vehicle was being driven by 19-year-old Lakendrick O’Neal and was also occupied by five additional passengers, ranging in ages 16 to 20 years old.  O’Neal refused to stop leading to a pursuit on multiple city streets.  While fleeing at a high rate of speed on Louisiana Highway 511 near Meriwether Road, O’Neal failed to negotiate a right hand curve and lost control of his vehicle.  The vehicle traveled off the roadway and struck a tree. 

 

O’Neal, whose restraint usage is unknown, sustained fatal injuries in the crash and was pronounced dead at the scene.  The five other occupants, whose restraint usages are also unknown, were transported to local hospitals with moderate to serious injuries.  A toxicology sample was obtained and will be submitted for analysis.  This crash remains under investigation. 

 

In 2020, Troop G has investigated six fatal crashes resulting in six deaths.