Driver Succumbs to Injuries Sustained in Richland Parish Crash

Richland Parish – On Tuesday, September 16, 2025, shortly after 7:00 a.m., Troopers with Louisiana State Police Troop F began investigating a fatal two-vehicle crash on U.S. Highway 425 at Louisiana Highway 135. The crash claimed the life of 59-year-old Samantha Gaydon of Rayville.

The initial investigation revealed that a 2001 Chevrolet Blazer, driven by Gaydon, was traveling east on Louisiana Highway 135. At the same time, a 2022 Ford Edge was traveling south on U.S. Highway 425. For reasons still under investigation, Gaydon failed to yield at the stop sign located at the intersection of Louisiana Highway 135 and U.S. Highway 425. As a result of this action, the Chevrolet struck the right side of the Ford.

Gaydon, who was properly restrained, received serious injuries. She was transported to an area hospital, where she later died. The driver of the Ford, who was properly restrained, received minor injury and was transported to an area hospital for treatment. Routine toxicology samples were collected and will be submitted for analysis. This crash remains under investigation.

While not all crashes are survivable, statistics show that properly wearing your seat belt will dramatically reduce your chances of being severely injured or killed in a crash. Louisiana law requires that every person in a vehicle, regardless of seating position, always remain buckled up. Properly wearing your seat belt is one of the most effective ways to save your life and reduce injuries during crashes.

Contact Information:
ST Ryan Davis
Louisiana State Police
Public Affairs Section
Office: (318) 345-2810
[email protected]