Slidell, LA — A 55-year-old Louisiana grandmother was arrested Wednesday after allegedly running over and killing her 5-year-old grandson while driving under the influence, according to police. The heartbreaking incident unfolded in a residential driveway as the child was waiting for his school bus.
Kristen Anders, of Slidell, has been charged with vehicular homicide, the Slidell Police Department confirmed. She was booked into custody and granted a $50,000 cash surety bond.
Tragic Morning Accident
Just after 7 a.m. Wednesday, officers responded to the 300 block of Spartan Loop following reports of a vehicle striking a young child. When officers arrived, they found that 5-year-old Carson Lawson had been hit by a 2016 GMC Yukon that was backed into the driveway.
According to FOX News, the child was standing in front of the SUV, waiting for his school bus, when his grandmother allegedly ran him over.
Police said Anders did not realize Lawson was outside at the time. She immediately stopped the car after feeling an impact.
“She stopped immediately when she realized she hit something,” said Slidell Police Chief Daniel Seuzeneau during a press conference. “It’s unclear whether the child was standing or sitting in front of the car before the crash.”
Family Witnessed the Tragedy
Seuzeneau confirmed that Carson Lawson had two siblings who attended the same school and were “in the vicinity” during the tragedy. The emotional weight of the incident has devastated the family and the surrounding community.
“I spoke with the victim’s mother several times today, and there isn’t anything that I can say to make her feel any better or make this situation better,” Seuzeneau said.
“All we can do is pray for peace. This is a very tragic situation for this family because not only do they lose their precious 5-year-old child, they’re also having to deal with the fact that the grandmother is now under arrest for this incident.”
Police noted that Anders exhibited signs of impairment at the scene. Officers later determined that she was under the influence of alcohol and central nervous system depressants when the crash occurred.
Charges and Investigation
Authorities charged Anders with vehicular homicide, one of the most serious offenses under Louisiana law for fatal crashes involving impairment. She remains under investigation as police review toxicology results and other evidence.
Investigators said there were no signs of intent, and the crash appeared to be a tragic consequence of impaired driving combined with a momentary lapse in awareness.
“We can all cast judgment and come to our own conclusions, but nobody, I mean nobody, wins in this case,” Seuzeneau added.
Community Reaction and Road Safety Awareness
The incident has deeply shaken Slidell residents, prompting renewed calls for responsible driving and sober awareness, especially in residential neighborhoods.
Police urged drivers to always check surroundings before reversing, especially in driveways where children are present, and to never drive under the influence of alcohol, prescription drugs, or sedatives.
Safety advocates emphasize that impaired driving remains a leading cause of child fatalities in preventable home and vehicle accidents.
What are your thoughts on this heartbreaking case and how communities can prevent similar tragedies? Share your views in the comments below.
