Kinder Man Succumbs to Injuries After Vehicle Struck by Train in Allen Parish

Elton – On May 9, 2025, shortly before 3:00 p.m., Louisiana State Police Troop D began investigating a serious injury crash involving a single-vehicle and a train at the railroad crossing located on Liberty Cemetery Road just north of U.S. Highway 190 in Allen Parish. The crash claimed the life of 20-year-old Jashawn Lavan of Kinder.

The preliminary investigation revealed that Lavan was driving a 2008 Honda Accord north on Liberty Cemetery Road approaching a railroad crossing. For reasons still under investigation, the Honda stopped on the railroad tracks in front of the approaching train. As a result, the train struck the left side of the vehicle.

Lavan, who was properly restrained at the time of the crash, sustained serious injuries and was transported to a local hospital where he later died.

A standard toxicology sample was collected and submitted for analysis. This crash remains under investigation.

Troopers wish to remind all motorists that trains can’t stop quickly. It is important for drivers to look and listen for trains when approaching railroad crossings and to always yield the right of way. For more information about train safety or to request a free Louisiana Operation Lifesaver educational program for your group, please contact the nearest Louisiana State Police public information officer at http://www.lsp.org/community-outreach/request-a-presentation/

Contact Information:

TFC Matt Gaspard

Louisiana State Police

Public Affairs Section – Troop D

Office: (337) 491-2513

[email protected]