Columbia Woman Killed in Head-On Collision on Louisiana Highway 561
COLUMBIA, La. — A devastating two-vehicle crash on Louisiana Highway 561 claimed the life of a Columbia woman Wednesday evening, leaving the small community mourning the sudden loss.
According to Louisiana State Police Troop F, the fatal crash occurred shortly before 6:00 p.m. on September 17, 2025, near Duchesne Road. The collision involved a 2021 Chevrolet Trail Blazer and a 2015 Kenworth commercial truck.
The Fatal Crash
Preliminary findings indicate that 35-year-old Jana Holman of Columbia was driving the Chevrolet northbound when, for reasons still under investigation, her vehicle crossed the centerline into the southbound lane. The Trail Blazer struck the Kenworth head-on, causing catastrophic damage.
Holman, who authorities say was not wearing a seatbelt, sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the Kenworth, who was properly restrained at the time of impact, was uninjured.
Possible Contributing Factors
Investigators have not yet confirmed what caused Holman’s vehicle to veer into oncoming traffic, but troopers suspect impairment may have played a role. As part of standard procedure, toxicology samples were collected from Holman and will be submitted for analysis.
State Police emphasized that results of the toxicology testing will be critical in determining the full circumstances surrounding the crash.
A Reminder from Louisiana State Police
In the aftermath of the collision, authorities used the tragedy to reiterate the dangers of impaired driving.
“If you feel differently, you drive differently,” Troop F officials said in a statement. “Alcohol, prescription medications, and other drugs can negatively affect a driver’s ability to safely operate a vehicle.”
Authorities explained that impairment can:
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Weaken visual judgment and depth perception.
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Alter a driver’s sense of time and space.
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Impair fine motor skills essential for steering, braking, and reacting to hazards.
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Significantly delay reaction times in life-or-death situations.
Motorists are urged to plan ahead, use ride-sharing services, or designate a sober driver. Troopers stressed that the consequences of driving impaired can be “irreversible and deadly,” pointing to Holman’s death as a tragic reminder.
Community Reaction
News of Holman’s passing has rippled through Columbia, a small town where community ties run deep. Friends and acquaintances described her as someone with a vibrant personality, whose life was cut short far too soon.
“This hits home for all of us,” said one neighbor. “It’s heartbreaking to know she won’t be around anymore. Our prayers are with her family.”
Ongoing Investigation
The crash remains under investigation by Louisiana State Police Troop F, who will continue examining roadway conditions, vehicle evidence, and toxicology results before issuing a final report.
For now, authorities say the wreck stands as another painful reminder of the importance of seatbelt use, sober driving, and vigilance on Louisiana’s roadways.
