Desoto Deputy killed in crash while on duty

The Desoto Parish Sheriff's Officer has reported the death of Deputy Donna Richardson-Below who lost her life in a tragic two-vehicle crash while on duty. 

"Deputy Richardson-Below was a beacon of light and impacted all who knew her., Deputy Mark Pierce wrote. We ask you to keep her family as well as her DeSoto Parish Sheriff’s Office family in your prayers."

Deputy Richardson-Below had been with the DeSoto Parish Sheriff’s Office since January of 2019.  She had previously been an agent with Louisiana Probation and Parole.

On February 12, 2020, just before 8:00 a.m., Louisiana State Police Troop G responded to a two-vehicle fatal crash on U.S. Highway 84 west of Louisiana Highway 3248.  This crash claimed the life of a 43-year-old DeSoto Parish Deputy Donna Richardson-Below.   

The initial investigation revealed a 2008 Jeep Cherokee, driven by 33-year-old Richard Wimer of Stonewall, was entering a curve while traveling east on U.S. Highway 84.  At the same time, an unmarked DeSoto Parish Sherriff’s Office’s Ford Crown Victoria, driven by Deputy Richardson-Below, was traveling west on U.S. Highway 84.  For reasons still under investigation, Wimer lost control of his vehicle and crossed a double yellow line which resulted in the collision with the Deputy’s vehicle.  Deputy Richardson-Below, who was properly restrained, was pronounced dead at the scene of the crash. 

Wimer, who was unrestrained, received moderate injuries and was transported to a local hospital.  Toxicology samples were obtained and submitted for analysis.  The crash remains under investigation.