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**Update: All lanes of the intersection are now open, but traffic will be controlled by flagmen for SWEPCO. Drivers are reminded to follow directions of flagmen and to use caution while driving through the area.                                      _____________________________________________________________________

The intersection of Ellerbe Rd. and Louisiana Highway 175 is completely closed following a major crash that caused a power outage, said Sheriff Steve Prator. A St. Landry Parish man was arrested for operating a vehicle while intoxicated and careless operation. 

Just before 9:00 p.m. on Wednesday, Caddo Parish patrol deputies were dispatched to the intersection of Ellerbe Rd. at LA-Hwy. 175 following a major crash. According to deputies, a GMC truck was eastbound on Ellerbe Rd. and stopped at  the intersection. The driver proceeded to drive east, failing to yield to a southbound 18-wheeler on Hwy. 175. The vehicles collided in the intersection and crashed into a SWEPCO pole causing downed power lines and a power outage.

There were no reported injuries and the driver of the GMC truck, Christopher Fontenot, 50, was arrested and booked into the Caddo Correctional Center for one count of 1st offense driving while intoxicated and one count of careless operation.

SWEPCO personnel have five trucks at the scene and are working to restore power. Drivers are urged to avoid the area and take another route, as the intersection is expected to be closed until 11:00 a.m. this morning.

For questions regarding this press release, please contact Casey Jones