DNA testing identifies second victim in fiery Hwy 71 crash in Caddo Parish

CADDO PARISH, La. ( KTAL/KMSS ) – The victim of a fiery crash in September on U.S. Highway 71 was identified by the Caddo Parish Coroner on Thursday.

A news release from the coroner's office identified 34-year-old Tristan McDay of Sibley, La., as the driver of the second vehicle involved in a head-on collision on September 27, 2024. The crash occurred in the 13800 block of Highway 71 near Interstate 49; the two vehicles collided, causing McDay's vehicle to burst into flames.

Forensic DNA testing conducted by the North Louisiana Crime Lab confirmed McDay's identity.