ALEXANDRIA - On Tuesday, June 17, at 10:59 p.m., Louisiana State Police Troop E responded to a fatal crash involving one vehicle and one pedestrian. The crash occurred on I-49, milepost 148.5, in Natchitoches Parish.

The crash involved a 2008 Toyota Camry, driven by Courtney A. Duplechin (white, 20-year-old female) of Ville Platte and a pedestrian, identified as Chery L. Desha (42-year-old black female) of Robeline. The Toyota was south bound on I-49 (inside lane) when it struck Desha.

Desha was pronounced dead.

Duplechin was not injured and routine toxicology tests are pending.

Natchitoches Parish Coroner’s Office will conduct an investigation to determine the exact cause of death.

The crash remains under investigation.

Troop E Troopers have investigated 29 fatal crashes for the year of 2008, resulting in 33 fatalities. Four of the 29 fatal crashes have involved pedestrians. Four fatal crashes have involved an ATV and two have involved a motorcycle. Fourteen of the 19 fatal crashes (passenger vehicles only) have involved unrestrained motorists/occupants. Seatbelt use is unknown in one fatal crash. Five fatal victims were restrained.