Elton, Louisiana — Louisiana State Police Troop D is investigating a fatal crash involving a single vehicle and a train that occurred on the afternoon of May 9, 2025, at a railroad crossing on Liberty Cemetery Road, just north of U.S. Highway 190. The incident resulted in the death of Jashawn Lavan, 20, of Kinder, Louisiana.
According to initial reports, Lavan was driving a 2008 Honda Accord northbound on Liberty Cemetery Road as he approached the railroad crossing. For reasons still under investigation, the Honda came to a stop on the railroad tracks directly in the path of an oncoming train. The train subsequently struck the left side of the vehicle.
First responders arrived at the scene shortly before 3:00 p.m. Lavan, who was wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash, sustained serious injuries. He was transported to a nearby hospital, where he later died as a result of his injuries.
Investigators collected a standard toxicology sample from Lavan, as is routine procedure in fatal crashes, to determine whether any substances may have contributed to the incident. The results are pending as the investigation continues.
Officials emphasize the importance of approaching railroad crossings with caution. Trains are significantly heavier and require much more distance to stop than passenger vehicles. Drivers are urged to always look and listen for trains, obey crossing signals, and never attempt to cross tracks unless it is absolutely safe to do so.