Chevrolet Camaro exits roadway and strikes tree near Highway 157
January 11, 2026 | Haughton, LA
Louisiana State Police are investigating a devastating single-vehicle incident in Haughton that resulted in the death of a 36-year-old man from Santa Fe, New Mexico.
Martin Montes, 36, of Santa Fe, New Mexico, died after the 2013 Chevrolet Camaro he rode in struck a tree on Davis Road near Louisiana Highway 157 in Haughton.
What Happened in the Haughton Crash?
The collision occurred around 4:45 a.m. on Jan. 11 along Davis Road near Louisiana Highway 157.
Key details include:
- Vehicle Involved: A 2013 Chevrolet Camaro traveling eastbound.
- Sequence of the Crash: For reasons still under investigation, the Camaro entered the LA 157 intersection, veered off the road, and struck a tree.
- Victim: Martin Montes, 36, an unrestrained passenger in the back seat, suffered fatal injuries and was declared deceased at the scene.
- Other Occupants: The driver and a front-seat passenger sustained moderate injuries and were taken to a nearby hospital for treatment.
- Investigation Focus: Authorities suspect driver impairment, with toxicology samples sent for testing. Potential charges are forthcoming as the investigation continues.
This tragic accident underscores the dangers of early-morning roadway travel in Bossier Parish, where visibility and driver alertness play critical roles.
Why Do Impairment-Related Crashes Occur?
Impaired driving continues to pose severe risks on U.S. roads, even amid ongoing enforcement efforts. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), alcohol contributed to 13,524 of the 42,514 fatal motor vehicle crashes in 2022.
Factor |
Description |
Impact (2022 NHTSA Data) |
|---|
Alcohol Impairment |
Diminished reaction time and judgment from consuming alcohol |
13,524 fatalities (32% of total) |
Unrestrained Occupants |
Lack of seatbelt use increases injury severity |
Contributes to higher death rates in crashes |
Single-Vehicle Incidents |
Often involve leaving the roadway and striking fixed objects like trees |
Common in impaired driving cases |
Early-Morning Timing |
Reduced visibility and fatigue exacerbate risks |
Higher incidence before dawn |
These statistics highlight the need for thorough investigations to identify contributing elements, such as blood-alcohol levels, beyond initial police findings.
Legal Insights on DUI and Wrongful Death Cases
Newsline consulted national legal analysts to provide perspective on incidents involving suspected impairment and potential civil remedies.
“In cases such as this, separate from any criminal charges, those affected may pursue compensation via a civil lawsuit against the at-fault party,” said Candice Bond, managing partner of Bond Legal. “Beyond law enforcement's efforts, legal representation can involve re-interviewing witnesses, reviewing surveillance footage, and securing phone records from the responsible individual. This advocacy supports those effected, safeguarding their rights and ensuring accountability for impaired drivers.”
Key takeaways from such analyses include:
- Independent investigations can uncover additional factors like exact impairment levels.
- Civil actions may cover medical costs, lost wages, and emotional damages.
- Prompt legal involvement preserves evidence and strengthens claims.
“The emotional toll after a loved one's loss in a crash can be immense,” noted Stefano Formica, of counsel at Bond Legal. “Protecting families' rights is essential, with ongoing monitoring of investigations to align with their best interests.”
For families considering options, resources like wrongful death claims can address losses including companionship and suffering.
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If you’ve been injured or lost a loved one due to a drunk driver, national legal analyst Candice Bond offers free consultations to guide you.
(Candice Bond, our national legal analyst, is a Managing Partner at Bond Legal. Newsline can and does use quotes from prior interviews with our analysts for our news articles. If you would like to contact Bond Legal to help you, please call 866-985-6515 or use the submission box found on this page. Legal analysts quoted may or may not be licensed in your state).