On a quiet Wednesday morning in Rapides Parish, Latrice Robinson, 44, of Marksville, lost her life in a tragic head‑on collision that stunned her community and shut down a stretch of Louisiana Highway 1 near Tyler Road. What began as a routine drive on January 28, 2026 quickly turned into heartbreak for her loved ones and an urgent investigation by state troopers.
Robinson was driving south on Louisiana Highway 1 around 10:48 a.m. when, for reasons that investigators say are still unclear, her 2015 Ford Focus crossed over the centerline into the northbound lane. Troopers with Louisiana State Police say she was attempting to pass several vehicles at the time.
The Focus collided head‑on with a northbound 2016 Infiniti QX8. The impact was severe, crushing the front ends of both vehicles and instantly drawing emergency crews to the scene. Neighbors and drivers passing through the area paused as first responders worked to clear the wreckage and tend to the injured.
Despite being properly restrained, Robinson suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. Troopers confirmed she was wearing her seat belt, a detail that often makes the difference between life and death but could not save her this time. Her death has left family and friends searching for answers as they remember her vibrant presence in Marksville.
In the Infiniti, both the driver and a passenger were also wearing seat belts. They survived the crash with moderate injuries and were rushed to a nearby hospital. Officials have not released updates on their current conditions, saying only that they were being treated for their injuries.
Louisiana State Police say routine toxicology tests were taken from all drivers involved, and those results are still pending. Troopers haven’t determined if any charges will be filed, reminding the public that the investigation into what caused the collision is ongoing.
Highway 1 is a major central Louisiana route that sees heavy commuter and commercial traffic. Troopers temporarily closed parts of the road while they documented the crash and cleared debris, urging drivers to stay alert and give space to emergency personnel working roadside.
In a statement, Louisiana State Police reiterated a message that hits hard after any deadly crash: even short lapses in attention can have deadly consequences. They emphasized the importance of cautious driving, especially when passing slower traffic or navigating two‑lane highways.
The investigation into the crash that claimed Robinson’s life continues. Authorities ask anyone who may have seen the collision or who has information to contact Louisiana State Police Troop E as they piece together the events of that morning.
