In a heartbreaking story that’s stunned a Louisiana community, a grandmother is accused of accidentally running over and killing her 5-year-old grandson while allegedly driving drunk early Tuesday morning.
Police say 55-year-old Kristen Anders was leaving for work around 7 a.m. when she hit little Carson Lawson as he waited for his school bus outside their Slidell home, about 30 miles from New Orleans.
Authorities believe Anders didn’t realize the child was standing in front of her GMC Yukon when she backed out — but tests reportedly showed she was under the influence of alcohol and sedatives. She was arrested on the spot for vehicular homicide.
“This is any parent’s worst nightmare,” Slidell Police Chief Daniel Seuzeneau said during a press conference. “The family not only lost their precious 5-year-old child — they’re also dealing with the fact that the grandmother is now under arrest.”
Police say Anders immediately stopped after realizing what had happened and has been cooperating with investigators. An autopsy for Carson, who just turned five in June, is expected later this week.
Chief Seuzeneau said the tragedy deeply affected first responders: “This hits home hard for all of us. It’s something no one should ever have to see.”
The investigation remains ongoing as the Slidell community mourns the unimaginable loss.
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