A Louisiana crossing guard has been killed while on duty, leaving a community in mourning.
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Katy Wells was fatally struck on Thursday, April 30, in Livingston Parish.
Authorities arrested 64-year-old Darren Goudeau, who now faces charges including driving while intoxicated and vehicular homicide.
Crossing Guard Killed While Assisting School Dismissal
Superintendent Purvis of the Livingston Parish Sheriff's Office confirmed the tragedy in a Facebook post.
"Today around 3:30 pm, during the afternoon school dismissal, a crossing guard at Gray's Creek Elementary was fatally struck by a vehicle on LA Hwy 16," the post read.
"Katy Wells was performing her duties as a crossing guard when she was struck by a vehicle traveling northwest. The Livingston Parish Sheriff's Office is on the scene of the accident and is handling the investigation."
Officials said Wells had served the Livingston Parish Public School System and the sheriff's office in various roles for more than 40 years.
She worked as a crossing guard at Seventh Ward Elementary and Gray's Creek Elementary in Denham Springs.
"She was a true servant to her community and she will be deeply missed," the post continues.
Charges Upgraded as Investigation Reveals Prior Arrest
Authorities initially charged Goudeau with first-offense driving while intoxicated and vehicular homicide.
Investigators later discovered a prior DWI arrest from September in a neighboring parish, leading to the charge being upgraded to a second offense.
The sheriff's office said the earlier arrest came to light through further investigation. Along with "tips received through LPSO's social media page."
In a follow-up statement, officials confirmed the investigation remains ongoing and thanked the public for "providing information and for working with us."
Tributes have continued to pour in for Wells, with many remembering her as a dedicated and kind presence in the community.
One social media user said, "I'm heartbroken to hear about this. She was one of the sweetest teachers I had at 7th Ward Elementary and always treated people with kindness."
Adding, "She made a real difference in so many lives. Praying for her family and everyone who loved her. She will never be forgotten."
Others have called for a strong legal response, with one user saying "Let's hope the judge doesn't slack on this one."
"Please make an example out of him," another added.
