Richland Parish, Louisiana - A two-vehicle crash at a major Louisiana highway intersection claimed the life of a 59-year-old Rayville, Louisiana, woman Tuesday morning, according to Louisiana State Police.

Samantha Gaydon died from injuries sustained in the crash that occurred shortly after 7:00 a.m. on September 16, 2025, at the intersection of U.S. Highway 425 and Louisiana Highway 135. Louisiana State Police Troop F is investigating the incident.

Crash Details and Investigation

According to the preliminary investigation, Gaydon was driving a 2001 Chevrolet Blazer eastbound on Louisiana Highway 135 when she failed to yield at a stop sign at the intersection. Her vehicle struck the right side of a southbound 2022 Ford Edge traveling on U.S. Highway 425.

The driver of the Ford, who was properly restrained with a seatbelt, sustained minor injuries and received treatment at a local hospital. Gaydon, also properly restrained, suffered serious injuries in the crash and was transported to an area hospital, where she later died.

Investigators have not yet determined why Gaydon failed to yield at the stop sign. The crash remains under active investigation by Louisiana State Police.

Standard Investigation Procedures

As part of standard protocol in fatal crashes, authorities collected routine toxicology samples that will be submitted for laboratory analysis. These tests help investigators determine if impairment played a role in the incident.

The intersection where the crash occurred connects two significant roadways in northeastern Louisiana. U.S. Highway 425 serves as a major north-south corridor, while Louisiana Highway 135 provides east-west connectivity in the region.