Two Louisiana Tech Students Killed in Rainstorm Crash
RUSTON, La. (KNOE) – Louisiana State Police (LSP) are investigating a fatal car crash that claimed the lives of two Louisiana Tech University international students and injured two others during heavy rainfall.
The victims, identified as 22-year-old Rajan Yadav and 20-year-old Rojin Oli, both from Nepal, died in the accident on July 13 around 9 p.m. on U.S. Highway 80.
According to LSP, Yadav was behind the wheel of a Honda Accord carrying Oli and two other passengers when the vehicle veered off the road, struck a tree, and caught fire. Yadav and Oli were pronounced dead at the scene, while the two surviving passengers were hospitalized. Authorities have not confirmed whether seatbelts were in use at the time of the crash.
Toxicology tests were conducted as part of standard procedure, with results pending further analysis.
Louisiana Tech University issued a statement on July 14, with President Jim Henderson urging the campus community to support one another, saying, “As a university, we espouse caring as a cherished Tenet of Tech. Continue to care for one another today and always.”
The university is offering counseling services at Keeny Hall 337 (walk-ins welcome) or by appointment at (318) 257-2488. Additionally, the Office of International Affairs is organizing a memorial and providing support for affected students. They can be reached at (318) 257-4321.
