The Louisiana State Police Troop F is investigating a fatal crash that occurred on Tuesday, December 17, 2024, involving a pedestrian on Louisiana Highway 34 near East Bawcom Street in West Monroe. The incident, which happened shortly before 7:00 p.m., resulted in the death of 78-year-old Carolyn Hudson of West Monroe. According to initial reports, Hudson was crossing the westbound lane of Louisiana Highway 34 when she was struck by a westbound 2010 Chrysler Town and Country. The exact circumstances leading to the accident remain unclear, and the investigation is ongoing to determine why Hudson was in the vehicle's path.
Upon arrival at the scene, authorities found Hudson had suffered fatal injuries and pronounced her dead. The driver of the Chrysler, who was properly restrained, was not injured. Authorities have stated that there is no suspicion of impairment on the part of the driver. However, as part of standard procedure, toxicology samples were taken from the driver and will be analyzed further. The incident has heightened concerns about pedestrian safety, especially on busy highways where such accidents are more likely to occur.
Investigators will continue to gather all relevant information, including road conditions, traffic patterns, and any other factors that may have contributed to the crash. The ongoing investigation aims to clarify the details surrounding the incident and provide answers to prevent similar tragedies in the future. The Louisiana State Police are urging anyone with additional information to come forward to assist in their investigation.
Carolyn Hudson's death has deeply affected the local community, leaving her family and friends in mourning. The tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities pedestrians face, particularly near highways. As the investigation proceeds, authorities remain focused on ensuring transparency and accountability, providing support to the Hudson family during this difficult time.
The community is grappling with the loss of Carolyn Hudson, and officials are working diligently to understand the cause of the crash. They will continue to gather information and support the grieving family, committing to transparency throughout the investigation. Updates will be provided as new details emerge, ensuring the community remains informed. For now, the focus is on bringing clarity to the incident and preventing future occurrences of similar nature, while offering condolences to Hudson's family and friends.
