2 People Killed in Claiborne Parish Crash
2 people have died in a crash in Claiborne Parish. The wreck happened just before 6:00 p.m. Thursday night on U.S. Hwy 79, south of Holly Springs Road.
27-year-old Matthew Rushing, of Keithville, and 31-year-old Jessie Watts, of Minden died in the two-vehicle accident.
State police say a 2017 Chevrolet Cruz, driven by Rushing was headed south on Hwy 79 while Watts was northbound in a 2013 Toyota Camry. Rushing's car crossed the centerline and collided head-on with the Watts car. Rushing was buckled up, but did not survive. Watts was not wearing her seatbelt and she died as a result of the crash.
Routine toxicology samples were collected and will be submitted for analysis. The crash remains under investigation.
Troopers urge motorists to avoid all distractions while driving, such as cell phones, eating and drinking, or anything else that can divert your attention from the road.
In 2021, Troop G has investigated 12 fatal crashes, resulting in 13 deaths.