Unrestrained driver killed in Riser Road crash near Jonesboro

VERNON PARISH, La. (WNTZ) – On Sunday, May 11, 2025, shortly before 12:00 p.m., Troopers with Louisiana State Police Troop F began investigating a two-vehicle crash on Riser Road just north of LA Highway 148. The crash claimed the life of 26-year-old Tayvionne Tate of Jonesboro.

The preliminary investigation revealed that a 2015 Chevrolet Malibu, driven by 25-year-old Janihajious Phillips, was traveling north on Riser Road. At the same time, a 2024 Nissan Versa was traveling south on Riser Road. For reasons still under investigation, Phillips veered left, crossed over the center line, and struck the Nissan head-on in the southbound lane of Riser Road.

Tate, who was the front seat passenger in the Malibu and unrestrained, suffered fatal injuries and died at the scene. Phillips, who was unrestrained, received serious injuries and was transported to an area hospital. The driver of the Nissan, who was properly restrained, received serious injuries and was transported to an area hospital. Impairment is a suspected factor in this crash. Routine toxicology samples were collected and will be submitted for analysis. This crash remains under investigation.

Louisiana State Police would like to remind all motorists that impaired driving and failure to wear a seatbelt can have deadly consequences. If you feel differently, you drive differently. Alcohol, prescription medications, and other drugs can impair your ability to safely operate a vehicle by affecting vision, judgment, coordination, and reaction time. In addition, choosing not to wear a seatbelt greatly increases the risk of serious injury or death in a crash. Motorists are urged to make responsible decisions. Always drive sober, always buckle up, and always plan ahead.