Alexandria, LA — June 18, 2025: 6-Year-Old Killed, Two Critically Injured in Heartbreaking ATV Collision
Alexandria, LA — A devastating accident in Alexandria, Louisiana, has claimed the life of a 6-year-old child and left two other children in critical condition after an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) collided with a car at a city intersection. The crash, which unfolded on the evening of Tuesday, June 18, has left the community reeling—and brought renewed urgency to conversations around ATV safety and child supervision.
According to the Alexandria Police Department, emergency crews responded around 6:30 p.m. to the intersection of Culpepper Road and North Boulevard, approximately 120 miles northwest of Baton Rouge. When first responders arrived, they found the wreckage of a four-wheeler and a heavily damaged car—along with four injured children who had been thrown from the ATV.
Police say the 12-year-old driver of the ATV failed to stop at a posted stop sign, leading to a violent collision with an oncoming vehicle. Three younger children—ages 10, 6, and 4—were riding as passengers.
The 6-year-old child was pronounced dead at the scene. The 12-year-old driver and 10-year-old passenger were both airlifted in critical condition to a nearby trauma center. The 4-year-old, though injured, is expected to survive.
Authorities confirmed that none of the children were wearing helmets, a safety lapse that may have significantly increased the severity of their injuries. Police also reiterated that ATVs are not permitted on public roads—particularly when operated by minors, in violation of Louisiana state law.
“This is an unimaginable tragedy,” said Alexandria Police Chief Ronald Guillory. “Our hearts go out to these families. This incident underscores why it is so critical to follow ATV safety laws. These machines are not toys—and they are certainly not meant for city streets or to be operated by children.”
The adult driver of the other vehicle remained on the scene and cooperated fully with investigators. They were not seriously injured, and at this time, no charges have been filed. Toxicology reports are pending as part of standard procedure, although authorities report there are no signs of impairment.
The Alexandria Police Department’s Traffic Division is continuing to investigate. Charges related to negligence or unsafe operation may be forthcoming, though officials have not yet stated who, if anyone, may be held legally responsible.
The community, already shaken, is grieving. Neighbors who live near the crash site described the impact as “like an explosion.” One witness shared, “We ran outside and saw the kids lying there. It’s something I’ll never forget. We just prayed.”
Local officials and safety advocates are now pushing for renewed public education on ATV usage, especially among youth. “All-terrain vehicles require training, safety gear, and adult supervision,” said Cpl. Andrea Jackson, a department spokesperson. “When that doesn’t happen, these vehicles can be deadly.”
In response to the tragedy, Alexandria Police and Rapides Parish officials plan to launch a public safety initiative focused on helmet use, legal ATV operation, and parental oversight. Flyers, school programs, and community events are being organized in the coming weeks.
Meanwhile, local churches and community leaders are arranging a candlelight vigil to honor the young life lost and pray for the healing of the others. Counselors have also been made available through Alexandria schools and faith organizations to support those affected.
Funeral arrangements for the 6-year-old are pending, with the family requesting privacy during this heartbreaking time. The names of the children involved are being withheld due to their ages and the ongoing investigation.
At the crash site, a small memorial is growing—stuffed animals, flowers, and handwritten notes laid gently beside a hand-painted sign that reads:
“They were just kids. Let’s protect the next.”
If you’d like, I can also help draft the vigil announcement, a quote graphic, or a statement from a local leader or official. Let me know what you need next.