Cyclist dies after accident in Jeff Davis Parish

A Mermentau man died in a traffic accident in Jeff Davis Parish on Sunday evening.

According to state police, 49-year-old Shawn Maris was riding his bicycle eastbound on U.S. 90 near Triangle Shell Road around 9 p.m. Their investigation revealed that Maris turned left in front of a pickup truck that was also traveling eastbound on the highway.

The truck driver was unable to avoid a collision with Maris, who was thrown from his bike. According to police, the bike had no reflectors or lights at the time of the accident.

Maris, who was not wearing a helmet, suffered fatal injuries and died at the scene. The driver of the GMC was properly restrained and did not suffer any injuries.

Standard toxicology samples were taken and sent for analysis. The accident remains under investigation.

“Police would like to remind cyclists that bicycles are classified as vehicles under Louisiana law and that riders must follow the same rules as motorists. Police would also like to stress the importance of wearing an approved helmet while riding a bicycle. Properly wearing an approved helmet reduces the risk of brain injury and increases the chance of survival,” a press release said.