SLIDELL, La. — A tragic accident in Slidell has left a family and community devastated after a 5-year-old boy was fatally struck by a vehicle driven by his grandmother early Tuesday morning.

The child, identified as Carson Lawson, was standing in his driveway around 7:00 a.m. waiting for his school bus when he was struck by a 2016 GMC Yukon that was backing out of the driveway in the 300 block of Spartan Loop in the Spartan Trace subdivision.

According to the Slidell Police Department, the driver — 55-year-old Kristen Anders of Slidell — showed visible signs of impairment and was later determined to be under the influence of alcohol and central nervous system depressants at the time of the crash.

Anders was taken into custody at the scene and has been charged with vehicular homicide.

Slidell Police Chief Daniel Seuzeneau described the incident as profoundly heartbreaking.

“This is any parent’s worst nightmare,” Chief Seuzeneau said. “I was at the scene myself, as were many of our officers, and this has affected all of us deeply — especially the first responders who witnessed the tragedy.”

Chief Seuzeneau stated that he spoke directly with Carson’s mother multiple times throughout the day to offer support and condolences.

“There isn’t anything I can say to make this situation better,” he continued. “All we can do now is pray for peace and healing for this family. Go home and hug your children or grandchildren a little tighter tonight. Life is precious, and tragedy can strike without warning.”

Family members have since shared emotional messages online honoring Carson’s memory.

Loved ones describe him as a joyful, kindhearted child who was excited about school and deeply loved by his family.

The investigation remains ongoing.