Louisiana State Police troopers responded to U.S. Highway 371 at Doc Steed Road on December 4, 2023, at approximately 3:30 p.m. to investigate a collision. Responding troopers conducted a preliminary investigation at the scene.

According to a social media post, a 2018 Chevrolet Silverado was stopped on U.S. Hwy 371 preparing to make a left turn onto Doc Steed Road while a 2006 Nissan Sentra, driven by the victim, was traveling southbound on Hwy 371. Failing to yield, the Chevrolet traveled into the path of the Nissan. The head-on collision resulted in the Nissan catching on fire.

The coroner’s office pronounced the driver of the Nissan deceased at the scene. The victim, who was restrained, was identified as Desiree Randle, 35, of Conway, Arkansas.

The driver and a passenger of the Chevrolet Silverado sustained moderate injuries. The driver, who was not wearing a seatbelt, was identified as Brandi Long, 34, of Minden. The passenger was wearing a seatbelt at the time of the accident. Long and the passenger were treated at the scene and released.

The investigation is ongoing. Toxicology samples have been submitted for analysis.