Katy Wells, a longtime crossing guard in Livingston Parish, Louisiana, died on Thursday afternoon after being struck by a vehicle while she was on duty outside Gray’s Creek Elementary School in Denham Springs.
The tragic incident occurred during the busy afternoon dismissal period when students were leaving the school.
Authorities said Wells was helping guide children safely across the roadway when she was hit by a vehicle traveling northwest on Louisiana Highway 16 near the intersection with Highway 1033.
Emergency responders arrived quickly, but she died from her injuries at the scene. Her death has left the local school community in shock and mourning.
A dedicated life of service to schoolchildren
Katy Wells had served the Livingston Parish Public School System and the Livingston Parish Sheriff’s Office for approximately 40 years in different roles.
In recent years, she worked as a crossing guard at Gray’s Creek Elementary and Seventh Ward Elementary in Denham Springs.
Colleagues and officials described her as a familiar and trusted presence who took her responsibility seriously every single day.
School officials said Wells was known for her commitment to student safety and her warm interactions with children, parents, and staff.
Superintendent Jody Purvis said she was a true servant to the community whose work made a lasting difference in the lives of countless families.
Many parents in the area also recognized her as a constant figure at the school crossing, ensuring children crossed busy roads safely each day.
Livingston Parish President Randy Delatte said Wells represented the heart of community service, noting that her dedication and kindness stood out throughout her decades of work.
He added that her presence at school crossings gave parents peace of mind and helped create a safer environment for students.
Tributes from the community highlighted her long-standing commitment and the personal connections she built over the years with families across the parish.
Investigation and community response
The Livingston Parish Sheriff’s Office confirmed that the driver involved in the crash, a 64-year-old man from Walker identified as Darren Goudeau, was arrested at the scene.
Authorities said he has been booked on charges of vehicular homicide and driving while intoxicated, first offense.
The investigation into the crash is ongoing as officials continue to gather details about what led to the incident.
School officials and law enforcement leaders expressed deep sorrow over the loss. The school system issued a statement asking the community to keep Wells’ family in their thoughts and prayers, describing her as someone who touched many lives through her years of service.
Sheriff Jason Ard called the incident devastating and emphasized that Wells was more than just a crossing guard, saying she played an important role in protecting children and supporting families.
Community members have also shared condolences and memories, describing her as kind, dependable, and deeply respected.
Many have pointed out the importance of school zone safety and the need for drivers to remain alert during school hours. The tragedy has prompted renewed attention to safety in areas surrounding schools.
Katy Wells’ death has left a lasting impact on Livingston Parish, where she will be remembered for her decades of service, her care for children, and her steady presence at school crossings that became part of daily life for many families.
