An Oakdale 13-year-old was killed around midnight Saturday night in a UTV crash on West River Road in Rapides Parish. The juvenile operating the vehicle lost control and struck a parked UTV, ejecting both the driver and passenger, Kyndal Vadrine. Master Trooper Casey Wallace said Vadrine was taken to a local hospital, where she was pronounced dead.
“It’s very unfortunate that something like this happens to a very, very young person- got their whole life ahead of them, and one mistake, one decision can just change everything,” said Wallace.
Both UTV drivers sustained minor injuries and were transported to a local hospital for treatment. Wallace said the reason for the late-night ride and how the driver lost control are still under investigation. He reminded all young people and parents to take precautions when operating motor vehicles.
“Anything with a motor on it, especially when you start talking about our young people, especially ages from about 15 to 25, that’s the number one killer of our teenagers is something with a motor on it,” Wallace said.
Louisiana State Police wish to remind UTV operators about the importance of not riding on public roadways with off-road-only vehicles. Wallace hoped this tragedy could help prevent future ones.
“Maybe take those things a little more serious and hopefully nothing like this ever happens again,” said Wallace.
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