STARKS & SULPHUR, La. — The Calcasieu Parish community is mourning the tragic loss of two local men who were killed in separate traffic accidents on Saturday. What began as an ordinary weekend ended in heartbreak for multiple families, as both incidents occurred within hours of each other and only miles apart.
The Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Office (CPSO) confirmed the fatalities and stated that both investigations remain ongoing.
First Crash: Tragedy on Big Woods Starks Road
The first accident occurred in the early morning hours on Big Woods Starks Road near Creek Road in Starks.
According to deputies, 48-year-old Louis Pool of DeQuincy was driving southbound when, for reasons still unknown, his pickup truck veered off the right side of the road. In an effort to correct the vehicle’s direction, Pool overcorrected, causing the truck to roll and exit the roadway to the left.
During the rollover, Pool was partially ejected from the vehicle.
He was pronounced dead at the scene.
Investigators noted that he was not wearing a seatbelt, a factor that likely contributed to the severity of the crash. The news has left loved ones and community members grappling with the sudden loss of a man known for his work ethic, his loyalty to those close to him, and the quiet kindness he shared with others.
Second Crash: Rollover on West Dave Dugas Road in Sulphur
The second fatal accident took place just before 11 p.m. Saturday night on West Dave Dugas Road near Choupique Road in Sulphur.
Investigators say 37-year-old Randall Ravia, a resident of Sulphur, was operating a side-by-side utility vehicle when he attempted to make a turn. For reasons that remain under review, the vehicle rolled over, ejecting both Ravia and his passenger.
Ravia was rushed to a local hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries.
His passenger was also transported to a nearby medical facility before being transferred out of town for a higher level of care. They are currently listed in critical but stable condition. Loved ones are holding onto hope for recovery while grieving the devastating loss of Randall.
Two Communities, One Shared Grief
The deaths of Louis Pool and Randall Ravia have left families, friends, and neighbors across Starks, Sulphur, and DeQuincy in mourning. While their lives were taken under different circumstances, the grief felt throughout the region is deeply connected.
Two men gone too soon.
Two families facing unimaginable pain.
Two communities left to lean on one another for strength.
Investigations Ongoing
The Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Office states that both crashes remain under investigation. Officials have not released further details as they continue to piece together what happened in each incident.
In Loving Memory
As we reflect on the lives of Louis Pool and Randall Ravia, we remember:
- Their presence in the everyday rhythms of life in Calcasieu Parish
- The laughter, conversations, and moments shared
- The families who loved them dearly
- And the community that now stands in sorrow and solidarity
May their families find comfort.
May their memories remain eternal.
May healing come, one day at a time.
