Breaux Bridge Man Killed in I-10 Crash

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Louisiana State Police officials say a 60-year-old Breaux Bridge man was killed in a crash on Interstate 10 near mile marker 128 on the westbound side. The preliminary investigation indicates the man was driving his truck westbound when he was involved in a single-vehicle crash, blocking both lanes. An approaching box truck then struck the man's vehicle, and he was ejected and pronounced dead at the scene.

Why it matters

This tragic incident highlights the importance of safe driving practices, such as never driving under the influence of substances and always wearing a seatbelt. The investigation also raises questions about the safety of that stretch of I-10 and whether any infrastructure improvements could help prevent similar fatal crashes in the future.

The details

According to Louisiana State Police Trooper Shelby Mayfield, the crash occurred around 2:00 a.m. when the 60-year-old Breaux Bridge man, identified as Nathan Smiling, was driving his truck westbound on I-10. Smiling was involved in a single-vehicle crash that left his truck blocking both westbound lanes. An approaching 2013 International box truck then struck Smiling's vehicle, and he was ejected from the truck as he was not wearing a seatbelt. Smiling was pronounced dead at the scene, while the box truck driver suffered minor injuries.

• The crash occurred around 2:00 a.m. on Tuesday, February 11, 2026.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The investigation into this fatal crash continues, and routine toxicology samples from Nathan Smiling will be analyzed by a lab.