A Marthaville man was found dead in an all-terrain vehicle crash on a trail near Marthaville in west Natchitoches Parish according to Natchitoches Parish Sheriff Victor Jones.
The NPSO 911 Communications Center received a 911 call from an individual on July 9 at 5:06 pm reporting that while riding on a trail off of the Preston Hayes Road near Marthaville he discovered the body of a deceased male trapped under an all-terrain vehicle and requested assistance.
Deputies assigned to the NPSO Patrol Division, Natchitoches Regional Medical Center EMS, and Natchitoches Parish Fire Protection District #7 responded to the scene.
Shortly after units arrived on scene, they requested the Natchitoches Parish Coroner’s Office.
The preliminary investigation revealed 54-year-old Timmy Lopez, of the 100 block of Cotton Road, Marthaville, La. was operating a 2006 Honda Rancher 350 ATV on a trail off of the Preston Hayes Road when he apparently hit a ravine causing the ATV to roll down an embankment ejecting Lopez. The ATV rolled over coming to a rest on top of Lopez causing fatal injuries.
Mr. Lopez was pronounced dead at the scene by Natchitoches Parish Deputy Asst. Coroner Steven Clanton.
Lopez was not wearing a helmet and alcohol is believed to be a contributing factor in the crash due to evidence collected at the scene.
Lopez was last seen riding the ATV on Saturday afternoon July 6, however, he had not been reported missing to the Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office.
Natchitoches Parish Fire District #7 assisted at the scene with their Argo an amphibious all-terrain vehicle that can travel through rugged terrain and water.
Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Deputies remind the public that although we live in the country and most of us have all-terrain vehicles, always drive carefully, wear helmets and never drink alcoholic beverages while operating an ATV. ATV crashes normally result in severe injuries or death.
Next-of-Kin has been notified.
Sgt. J. McDonald investigated the crash.
