A woman in Louisiana has been charged after allegedly causing the death of her grandson while driving under the influence on Tuesday.
During a news conference on November 11, Slidell police announced that 55-year-old Kristen Anders faces a charge of vehicular homicide.
The St. Tammany Parish Coroner’s Office confirmed on Wednesday that the victim was Anders’ 5-year-old grandson, Carson Lawson.
The tragic event occurred around 7 a.m. on Tuesday when Carson was waiting in his driveway in the 300 block of Spartan Loop in Slidell for his school bus.
According to NBC Bay Area, Anders was driving a 2016 GMC Yukon to work when she accidentally struck Carson as she exited the driveway.
Anders reportedly claimed she did not see Carson due to the size of the SUV. Investigations later revealed that she was under the influence of alcohol and “central nervous system suppressants” at the time of the incident.
“She exhibited signs of impairment,” Slidell Police Chief Daniel Seuzeneau said.
Carson died instantly, according to police.
“There is absolutely nothing in this world that I could say to truly express the sorrow I will now and forever have in my heart,” Carson’s mother posted on Facebook.
“His unexpected death and the way he went was the most traumatic and devastating scenario I have ever had to endure.”
Seuzeneau added that Anders, who police believe lived at the home with Carson and his family, stopped the vehicle immediately after she realized she had “hit something.”
“He was a tiny boy, and she didn’t see him,” he said.
“It was a tragedy… We’re not here to try to vilify anybody. It is what it is. The facts are what they are.”
FOX News Digital reports that Anders has been granted a $50,000 cash surety bond.
The story is developing. Check back for updates.
[Feature Photo via GoFundMe]
