Bunkie Man and Breaux Bridge Man Killed in Avoyelles Parish Crash

On July 4, 2024, at approximately 1:30 a.m., Louisiana State Police Troop E responded to a two-vehicle crash on Louisiana Highway 29 near Overbey Road. The crash claimed the lives of 63-year-old Shepherd Roy Jr. of Bunkie and 75-year-old Robert Johnson of Breaux Bridge.
The initial investigation revealed that a 2001 GMC Sierra, driven by Roy, was northbound on Louisiana Highway 29. For reasons still under investigation, the Sierra crossed the centerlines into the southbound travel lane and collided head-on with a 2002 Chevrolet Silverado, driven by Johnson.
Roy, who was not restrained, sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced dead on scene. Johnson, who also was not restrained, sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced dead on scene. Impairment is a suspected factor in this crash. Routine toxicology samples were obtained and submitted for analysis. This crash remains under investigation.
Louisiana State Police would like to remind all motorists that if you feel differently, you drive differently. Alcohol, prescription drugs, and other drugs have many effects on the body that negatively affect driving skills. These drugs can impair visual ability, alter the sense of time and space, impair fine motor skills needed to operate a motor vehicle, and decrease reaction times. Motorists are encouraged to plan ahead and designate a sober driver. Not doing so can have deadly consequences.
While not all crashes are survivable, proper use of seat belts can greatly decrease an occupant’s chance of death and may greatly reduce the extent of injury. Always ensuring every occupant is properly restrained can often mean the difference between life and death.
In 2024, Troop E Troopers have investigated 32 fatal crashes, resulting in 36 fatalities.