Juvenile Passenger Succumbs to Injuries in Jefferson Davis Parish Crash

Jennings – On April 18, 2025, shortly before 3:00 p.m., Louisiana State Police Troop D began investigating a three-vehicle serious injury crash on Louisiana Highway 26 near Andrus Cove Cemetery Road. This crash ultimately claimed the life of 8-year-old Penelope Richard of Texas City, Texas.

The preliminary investigation revealed that a 2019 Kia Sportage was traveling south on LA Hwy 26 and had slowed to a stop to turn left into a private drive. At the same time, a 2012 Toyota Corolla was slowing to a stop behind the Kia. Following the Corolla was a 2017 Toyota Tacoma driven by 19-year-old Kayden Palfrey. For reasons still under investigation, the Tacoma failed to slow down and struck the rear of the Corolla, causing it to exit the roadway. The Tacoma then continued forward and also struck the rear of the Sportage.

Palfrey sustained minor injuries and was transported to an area hospital. The drivers of both the Corolla and the Sportage also sustained minor injuries. Richard, a rear-seat passenger in the Corolla, sustained serious injuries and was transported to an out-of-area hospital. Troop D was later notified that Richard succumbed to her injuries. All occupants were properly restrained at the time of the crash.

Although impairment is not suspected, standard toxicology samples were collected from all drivers and submitted for analysis. This crash remains under investigation.

While the cause of the crash remains under investigation, impaired and distracted driving remain leading causes of crashes in our state. Troopers urge all motorists to stay attentive at all times, maintain a safe following distance, and always drive focused and alert.

Contact Information:
TFC Tiah Larvadain
Louisiana State Police
Public Affairs Section – Troop C
Office: (985) 857-3680
[email protected]