Natchitoches woman dies in van crash

A Natchitoches woman died Thursday after she was ejected in a crash in Evangeline Parish, according to Louisiana State Police.

The crash happened around 3 p.m. on Interstate 49, just south of the Avoyelles-Evangeline parishes line.

Samuel Darden, 25, of New Llano was driving a 2003 Ford van south on Interstate 49, just south of the Avoyelles-Evangeline parishes line, when one of the tires "experienced a failure," reads the release.

Darden lost control and ran off the road, causing the van to begin overturning. He sustained moderate injuries in the crash. The release does not state whether he was wearing a seat belt.

But Darden's passenger, 33-year-old Ayesha Davis, was pronounced dead at the scene. She was not wearing a seat belt, according to the release.

The crash remains under investigation.

State Police advises drivers that, if they experience a tire blowout while driving, to not apply the brakes right away. Regain control of the vehicle, then softly apply the brakes. 

"Concentrate on steering, allow the car to slow down gradually, and then steer the vehicle off the road," it reads. "The type of vehicle you are driving will play a major role in your ability to maintain control. If you are mentally prepared for an emergency, chances are you will respond appropriately."