Tragic Head-On Collision Claims Life of Pineville Man on Louisiana Highway 3170

Pineville, LA – June 29, 2024 – A devastating accident on Louisiana Highway 3170 has resulted in the death of 69-year-old Oddis L. Dunbar Jr. from Pineville. The incident, which occurred around 2:00 p.m., involved a head-on collision between two vehicles and has left the community mourning.

Louisiana State Police Troop E responded to the scene and conducted an initial investigation. It was determined that a 2015 Chevrolet pickup truck, driven by 68-year-old Donald R. Jones from Alexandria, veered into the opposite lane and collided head-on with a 2023 Hyundai SUV operated by Dunbar.

Despite being properly restrained, Dunbar suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. Jones, who was also wearing his seatbelt, sustained minor injuries and was transported to a nearby hospital for treatment. As part of standard procedure, toxicology samples were collected from both drivers and sent for analysis.

The exact cause of the crash is still under investigation. However, Louisiana State Police emphasize that distracted and inattentive driving are major contributors to accidents across the state. They remind all drivers to stay vigilant and focused while driving, as even a brief lapse in attention can lead to catastrophic outcomes.

This tragic incident adds to the growing number of fatal crashes in the region. In 2024 alone, Troop E Troopers have investigated 31 fatal accidents, resulting in 34 deaths. The Louisiana State Police continue to stress the importance of road safety and the need for drivers to adhere to traffic laws to prevent further tragedies.

The community is urged to reflect on the importance of safe driving practices and to remain cautious on the roads. The loss of Oddis L. Dunbar Jr. serves as a somber reminder of the potential consequences of a momentary distraction while driving.