Pedestrian Struck and Killed on Greenwell Springs Road

Louisiana State Police Report

Louisiana State Police Troop A investigated a single-vehicle fatal crash involving a pedestrian last night, October 21, 2011, on LA 37 (Greenwell Springs Road) at Frenchtown Road. Troopers responded to the crash at 7:00 pm and learned that the pedestrian had been transported to a local hospital with life-threatening injuries.

Troopers’ investigation revealed that Connie Cutrer (W/F, age 45) of Zachary was driving a 2000 Nissan Altima north on LA 37, approaching the intersection with Frenchtown Road. As she crossed the intersection through a green light, William Newsom (W/M, age 63) of Greenwell Springs walked into Cutrer’s path from her right. Cutrer was unable to avoid striking Newsom. Newsom was transported to a local hospital and later succumbed to his injuries. He was pronounced deceased by hospital staff.

Although Troopers did not suspect impairment on the part of Cutrer, she voluntarily submitted a breath sample that showed she had no detectable alcohol in her system. Troopers do suspect Newsom may have been impaired and have submitted a blood sample to the Louisiana State Police Crime Lab for chemical analysis. No charges have been filed in connection with this crash.

This is the second pedestrian who has been killed in the Troop A area in less than a week, and there have been several fatal pedestrian crashes across Louisiana this year. Most of these crashes have occurred at night, and many occurred in dark areas. Troopers would like to remind the public of the importance of pedestrian safety. There are several things pedestrians can do to increase safety and decrease the risk of being struck by a vehicle. It is very important that pedestrians wear light-colored or reflective clothing, walk against traffic flow, and cross the road only when it is safe to do so.