by LOUISIANA — A 5-year-old boy was killed in a heartbreaking incident after being run over by an alleged impaired driver — a driver who police say was his own grandmother. The Slidell Police Department announced the arrest of 55-year-old Kristen Anders, who now faces a charge of vehicular homicide in the death of her grandson, Carson Lawson.
Authorities said the accident occurred around 7 a.m. on Tuesday when officers were called to the family’s home. Carson was pronounced dead at the scene.
How the Incident Unfolded
Slidell Police Chief Daniel Seuzeneau explained that Carson had been waiting in the driveway for his school bus when the tragedy occurred. According to investigators, Anders was backing out of the driveway to leave for work.
Police allege she did not realize Carson was outside. Because she was driving a large SUV, officers said she could not see him standing directly in front of the vehicle.
“He was waiting in the driveway for the school bus,” Seuzeneau said, describing the sequence of events. “She just didn’t know he was there.”
Carson died instantly, according to responding officers who pieced together the events after interviewing witnesses.
Allegations of Impairment
At the scene, investigators conducted tests to determine whether Anders was under the influence. A certified drug recognition expert allegedly confirmed signs of impairment, indicating she was influenced by alcohol and central nervous system depressants. Police did not specify which depressants were involved.
Following the assessment, Anders was arrested and booked into jail on a charge of vehicular homicide.
Impact on Family and Responders
Police Chief Seuzeneau emphasized how deeply the tragedy has affected the department and the community.
“This is any parent’s worst nightmare,” he said. “This affects everyone. This hits home hard for all of us and all of the first responders who were at that scene.”
Seuzeneau added that he had spoken multiple times with Carson’s mother throughout the day as she grappled with the unimaginable loss.
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“There isn’t anything that I can say that can make her feel better or make this situation better,” he told reporters.
Charges and Ongoing Investigation
Anders was booked into the St. Tammany Parish Jail on Wednesday, where her bail was set at $50,000. The investigation remains active as authorities continue reviewing witness statements, impairment tests and evidence collected from the scene.
Community Reaction
The tragic loss of Carson Lawson has sent shockwaves through Slidell, with local residents expressing sorrow and disbelief at the devastating circumstances. As the investigation progresses, community members are offering support to the grieving family while awaiting further updates.
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