Natchitoches Parish, LA (February 13, 2026) – A tragic crash on Interstate 49 claimed the life of a Michigan man on the afternoon of February 12. Louisiana State Police Troop E responded to the scene around 1:39 p.m. near Mile Post 140, where two commercial trucks were involved in a fatal roadside incident. The victim, 25-year-old Dejuan D. Dickerson of Highland Park, MI, had exited his parked Freightliner to change a flat tire when he was struck by another southbound Freightliner that veered onto the shoulder. Dickerson died at the scene. The other driver sustained minor injuries.
Key Details
- Location: I-49 near Mile Post 140, Natchitoches Parish, LA
- Vehicles Involved: Two Freightliners; one stationary on the shoulder
- Fatalities: Dejuan D. Dickerson, 25, of Highland Park, MI
- Injuries: The second driver sustained minor injuries
- Reported: February 12 at approximately 1:39 PM
- Status: Crash remains under investigation; charges pending
What We Know So Far
- Dickerson was outside his truck attempting to change a tire when struck
- A southbound 2023 Freightliner drifted onto the shoulder and hit both the truck and a pedestrian
- Toxicology samples were collected from the surviving driver as part of a routine procedure
What’s Not Yet Confirmed
- Why did the moving Freightliner drifted onto the shoulder
- Whether distraction, fatigue, or mechanical issues played a role
- What charges, if any, will be filed once the investigation is complete
Local Context
Roads like I-49 in Natchitoches Parish serve as key freight corridors, often with limited shoulder clearance. In incidents involving roadside repairs, visibility and driver attentiveness are critical to safety. Louisiana authorities routinely stress the risks of distracted driving in these zones.
What to Do Next
- Move to a safe area if vehicle issues occur on high-speed roadways.
- Use hazard lights and reflective devices when stopping on a shoulder.
- Note the time, location, and vehicle condition for reports.
- Contact emergency services immediately when struck or involved in a roadside incident.
FAQ
Q: Why might early details change after an incident?
A: Crash investigations rely on witness accounts, scene evidence, and technical reports, which can evolve as more information is confirmed.
Q: Why can freeway accidents be especially hazardous?
A: High speeds and limited shoulder space reduce reaction time, especially when drivers are inattentive or distracted.
Q: What happens during the documentation phase of a response?
A: Officials document the scene with measurements, photographs, and witness statements to determine fault and contributing factors.
