Wear Red Day being observed as tribute to Converse teen killed in wreck

(KSLA) — A Wear Red Day is being observed Friday (Feb. 9) in memory of a teenager killed in a two-vehicle wreck earlier this week in Sabine Parish. And the tribute is drawing support and participation throughout the region. "The DeSoto Parish Sheriff’s Office will be wearing Red to remember Walker Pickett, a young man from Converse High School who tragically lost his life in a crash this week,” says a Facebook post by the DeSoto Sheriff’s Office. “It has truly blessed our hearts to see an outpouring of support from local agencies, businesses, and schools choosing to participate in this cause on Friday. Please join us, and many others, as we continue to pray for the friends and family of Walker during such a difficult time.” It was about 7:30 a.m. Wednesday when the 14-year-old from Converse was killed in a two-vehicle crash on Louisiana Highway 191 near Old Camp Road in Union Springs community in Sabine Parish near the DeSoto Parish line. The initial investigation revealed that a 1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee being driven by 33-year-old Henry Ezernack, of Noble, was northbound on LA 191 when it crossed the centerlines into the southbound lane and collided head-on with a 2005 Dodge Ram, according to Louisiana State Police. Ezernack, who was not restrained, sustained moderate injuries and was taken to a local hospital for treatment. The 16-year-old who was driving the Dodge also was not restrained. The teen sustained moderate injuries and also was taken to a local hospital for treatment. The 14-year-old passenger in the Dodge, who also was not restrained, was pronounced deceased on the scene. Routine toxicology samples were obtained and submitted for analysis. “While the cause of this crash remains under investigation, distracted and inattentive driving continues to be a leading cause of crashes in our state,” says a statement from LSP. “Louisiana State Police urges all motorists to stay alert while driving. A lapse in one’s awareness can have deadly consequences. “(And) although not all crashes are survivable, proper use of seat belts can greatly decrease an occupant’s chance of death and may greatly reduce the extent of injury,” LSP added. “Always ensuring every occupant is properly restrained can often mean the difference between life and death.” Louisiana State Police Troop E troopers have investigated four fatal crashes resulting in four fatalities this year.