Texas man dies in utility terrain vehicle crash in Louisiana

MARKSVILLE, La. (WNTZ) — A Texas man was killed Saturday night in a utility terrain vehicle crash in Avoyelles Parish, according to Louisiana State Police.

Troopers with LSP Troop E responded to the single-vehicle crash around 9:05 p.m. on Sayes Road near Louisiana Highway 115. The crash claimed the life of Brian K. Luneau, 47, of Addison, Texas.

According to the initial investigation, Luneau was operating a 2014 Polaris Ranger UTV when, for reasons still under investigation, he lost control of the vehicle. The UTV left the roadway and overturned, ejecting Luneau from the vehicle.

Luneau was not wearing a restraint and suffered fatal injuries. He was pronounced dead at the scene. A juvenile passenger, who was properly restrained, was not injured in the crash.

Impairment is suspected to be a factor, authorities said. Toxicology samples were collected and submitted for analysis. The crash remains under investigation.

State Police reminded motorists that driving under the influence of alcohol, prescription drugs, or other substances can significantly impair the ability to safely operate a vehicle.

“If you feel differently, you drive differently,” the agency said in a statement. “Plan ahead and designate a sober driver — not doing so can have deadly consequences.”