Kristen Anders, Slidell Grandmother, Arrested for Killing 5-Year-Old Grandson Carson Lawson While Driving Impaired

A 55-year-old grandmother from Slidell, Louisiana, has been arrested after allegedly striking and killing her 5-year-old grandson, Carson Lawson, while driving under the influence.

According to the Slidell Police Department, the tragic accident occurred around 7 a.m. Tuesday in the 300 block of Spartan Loop in the Spartan Trace subdivision. Investigators say Kristen Anders was backing her 2016 GMC Yukon out of the driveway when she accidentally hit her grandson, who was standing outside waiting for his school bus.

Police said Anders did not realize Carson was behind the vehicle as she prepared to leave for work. The child was fatally struck in the driveway.

Responding officers reported that Anders showed visible signs of impairment. Subsequent testing revealed that she was under the influence of alcohol and central nervous system depressants at the time of the crash, according to KPTV.

Kristen Anders, Slidell Grandmother, Arrested for Killing 5-Year-Old Grandson Carson Lawson While Driving Impaired

Anders was arrested at the scene and charged with vehicular homicide.

Slidell Police Chief Daniel Seuzeneau described the tragedy as “any parent’s worst nightmare.”

“I was at the scene this morning, as were several of our officers,” Chief Seuzeneau said. “This affects everyone. It hits home hard for all of us — especially the first responders who were there.”

The police chief also shared that he had spoken with Carson’s mother multiple times throughout the day, offering condolences and support.

“There isn’t anything I can say to make this situation any better,” he said. “All we can do is pray for peace for this family. Go home, hug your kids or grandkids a little tighter tonight. Life is precious, and tragedy can strike any of us without warning.”

Carson Lawson had just turned five in June. Authorities said an autopsy is scheduled for this week.