UPDATE: Driver Charged with Vehicular Homicide in Fatal St. Tammany Parish Crash

Bush – Troopers with Louisiana State Police Troop L continued the investigation into the September 16, 2025, fatal crash that claimed the life of 8-year-old Jewel Leger of Covington.

Standard toxicology testing was performed on the driver of the Toyota Camry, 39-year-old Candace L. Leblanc of Covington, as part of the investigation. The results revealed that Leblanc’s blood contained impairing drugs at the time of the crash.

Troopers obtained an arrest warrant for Leblanc through the 22nd Judicial District Court on the charges of L.R.S. 14:32.1 – Vehicular Homicide, L.R.S. 32:295 – No Child Restraints, L.R.S. 32:300 – Possession of Alcoholic Beverages in Motor Vehicles, L.R.S. 32:52 – Driver Must be Licensed, and L.R.S. 32:58 – Careless Operation.

On October 4, 2025, Troopers booked Leblanc into the St. Tammany Parish Correctional Facility on the above charges.

This crash remains under active investigation.

Louisiana State Police remind all motorists of the dangers of impaired driving, which can have devastating consequences, whether caused by alcohol, drugs, or a combination of the two. Motorists are urged to make responsible decisions, such as never driving while impaired, always ensuring that all occupants are properly restrained, and avoiding distractions while driving. These choices can often mean the difference between life and death.

Initial Release on September 16, 2025:

Unrestrained Juvenile Passenger Killed in St. Tammany Parish Crash

Bush – On September 16, 2025, at approximately 8:25 a.m., Troopers with Louisiana State Police Troop L responded to a single-vehicle crash on LA Hwy 40, just east of Hurd Road in St. Tammany Parish. The crash claimed the life of 8-year-old Jewel Leger of Covington.

The initial investigation revealed that a 2009 Toyota Camry was traveling west on LA Hwy 40 while approaching a left-hand curve. For reasons still under investigation, the vehicle traveled off the roadway to the right and struck a tree.

The driver, who was properly restrained, sustained moderate injuries and was transported to a local hospital. Jewel, who was seated in the front passenger seat and unrestrained, sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene. A routine toxicology sample was collected from the driver for analysis as part of the ongoing investigation.

This crash remains under investigation.

Louisiana State Police remind motorists that proper restraint use greatly reduces the risk of serious injury or death. Louisiana law requires all occupants to be properly restrained at all times, and a child under thirteen must ride in the rear seat, when available, in an appropriate restraint system or seat belt that meets federal standards.

Parents and caregivers unsure about car seat installation are encouraged to visit any Louisiana State Police Troop or contact the Louisiana Highway Safety Commission for assistance.

Troopers urge all motorists to drive responsibly, avoid impairment and distractions, and always ensure every occupant is properly restrained. To report hazardous driving, dial *LSP (*577).

Contact Information:
Trooper Marc Gremillion
Louisiana State Police
Public Affairs Section – Troop L
Phone: (985) 302-9272
[email protected]