A quiet afternoon turned into a heartbreaking tragedy in Louisiana after a beloved crossing guard was struck and killed while doing her job.
Authorities say Katy Wells was hit by a vehicle on April 30 along LA Highway 16 in Livingston Parish during school dismissal — a time when she was helping keep children safe.
According to the Livingston Parish Sheriff’s Office, Wells was on duty when a vehicle traveling northwest slammed into her around 3:30 p.m.
The loss has hit the community especially hard.
Wells had spent four decades serving local schools and law enforcement, working in multiple roles over the years, including as a crossing guard at elementary schools in Denham Springs. Officials described her as someone who dedicated her life to helping others.
“She was a true servant to her community and she will be deeply missed,” the sheriff’s office said in a statement, asking for prayers for her family and the many people whose lives she touched.
Investigators say the driver, 64-year-old Darren Goudeau, has been charged with driving while intoxicated and vehicular homicide. Officials later revealed the DWI charge was upgraded to a second offense after discovering a prior arrest in 2022.
The local school district also shared an emotional tribute, calling Wells a beloved presence whose kindness and commitment left a lasting impact.