SLIDELL, La. — Heartbreak has swept through the Slidell community after a tragic accident claimed the life of 5-year-old Carson Lawson early Tuesday morning. What began as a routine school day turned into an unimaginable nightmare for the young boy’s family, leaving relatives, neighbors, and first responders shaken by the devastating loss.
According to the Slidell Police Department, the incident occurred around 7:00 a.m. in the 300 block of Spartan Loop within the Spartan Trace subdivision. Carson had been standing in his driveway, waiting excitedly for his school bus, when he was struck by a 2016 GMC Yukon driven by his grandmother, 55-year-old Kristen Anders of Slidell. Investigators say the Yukon was backing out of the driveway when the tragedy occurred, hitting Carson with fatal force before anyone could react.
Authorities reported that Anders showed clear signs of impairment at the scene. After further evaluation, she was determined to be under the influence of alcohol and central nervous system depressants at the time of the crash. She was taken into custody and later charged with vehicular homicide, a charge that underscores the profound gravity of the incident. Police say she cooperated with the investigation but remained visibly distraught as officers worked the scene.
Slidell Police Chief Daniel Seuzeneau called the tragedy one of the most heartbreaking incidents local officers have faced. “This is any parent’s worst nightmare,” he said, describing the emotional toll the scene took on responding officers. Chief Seuzeneau spent the day in communication with Carson’s mother, offering comfort and support as she faced overwhelming grief. “There isn’t anything I can say to make this situation better,” he added. “All we can do now is pray for peace and healing for this family.”
Family members and loved ones have shared emotional tributes online, honoring Carson’s memory and describing him as a bright, joyful child who loved school and brought happiness to everyone around him. Photos and messages shared on social media paint the picture of a little boy full of life, surrounded by love, and excited about the world ahead of him — a life cut tragically short.
As the investigation continues, the Slidell community has come together in sorrow, offering prayers, condolences, and support for Carson’s grieving family. Authorities say additional details may be released as the case progresses, but for now, the focus remains on helping a shattered family navigate the pain of an unthinkable loss.
