Dodson, LA (March 3, 2026)—A single-vehicle crash along US Hwy 167 near Dodson on Sunday morning, March 1, left one man dead and another person injured in Winn Parish.
The accident occurred around 9:09 a.m. Initial findings show that 44-year-old Miguel Angel Bello-Castillo of Farmerville was driving a 2017 Chevrolet Cruze southbound on US Highway 167 until, for reasons still under investigation, the vehicle left the roadway.
After departing the highway, the car struck a ditch embankment and overturned. The impact caused severe damage to the vehicle.
Authorities said Bello-Castillo was wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash. He suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene.
A passenger in the vehicle, who was also wearing a seat belt, suffered moderate injuries. Emergency crews transported the passenger to a nearby hospital for treatment. Impairment is suspected as a possible factor.
Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the crash, and more details will be released as soon as they become available.
We extend our sincere condolences to the family of the deceased.
Why Single-Vehicle Rollover Crashes Often Occur After a Roadway Departure
Many rollover accidents begin when a vehicle leaves the roadway unexpectedly. Once a vehicle moves off the pavement, drivers may attempt to steer sharply back onto the road. This sudden correction can destabilize the vehicle, especially at highway speeds.
Ditches, soft shoulders, and uneven terrain along rural highways can also contribute to rollover risks. When a tire strikes a ditch embankment or steep edge, the vehicle’s momentum can cause it to flip or rotate.
Speed, driver reaction time, and roadway conditions all influence how a vehicle responds after leaving the pavement. Even small steering movements can have large effects when a car is already off balance.
Seat belts remain one of the most effective safety features during rollover crashes. They help keep occupants within the vehicle’s protective area and can reduce the risk of severe injury during violent vehicle movement.