Fatal Crash Claims Life of Natchitoches Woman

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The Louisiana State Police are investigating a fatal crash that occurred at the intersection of Highway I-20 and Louisiana Highway 175 in Sabine Parish. The crash claimed the life of 66-year-old Kathy Birdwell of Natchitoches, Louisiana. According to authorities, a 2000 Chevrolet van was traveling west on Louisiana Highway 120 when the driver failed to stop at the intersection, causing the vehicle to leave the roadway and impact the ditch embankment. Birdwell, who was restrained, received fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver and two passengers sustained moderate injuries and were transported to a local medical facility for treatment.

Why it matters

This tragic incident highlights the importance of driver awareness and following traffic laws, as a lapse in attention can have devastating consequences. The investigation into the cause of the crash is ongoing, and the results may lead to changes in road safety measures or enforcement in the area.

The details

According to the Louisiana State Police, the crash occurred around 5:27 p.m. on March 1, 2026. The investigation found that a 2000 Chevrolet van was traveling west on Louisiana Highway 120 when the driver failed to stop at the intersection, causing the vehicle to leave the roadway and impact the ditch embankment. Kathy Birdwell, a 66-year-old woman from Natchitoches, Louisiana, was restrained in the vehicle but sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver and two passengers in the van received moderate injuries and were transported to a local medical facility for treatment.

• The crash occurred around 5:27 p.m. on March 1, 2026.

What’s next

The Louisiana State Police said routine toxicology samples were taken and submitted for testing, but the crash still remains under investigation. They urge all motorists to stay alert while driving, as a lapse in one's awareness can have deadly consequences.