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CARIE EDWARDS

CORRESPONDENT TO THE DAILY NEWS

A tragic two-vehicle crash claimed the lives of an elderly Bogalusa couple Tuesday morning, July 15, 2025. Louisiana State Police Troop L began investigating the collision shortly after it occurred around 9:40 a.m. at the intersection of LA Highway 21 and Lee’s Creek Road.

According to preliminary reports, 86-year-old Donald Williams was driving a 2013 Lincoln MKS eastbound on Lee’s Creek Road toward LA Highway 21. At the same time, a 2012 Hyundai Sonata was traveling southbound on Highway 21. For reasons still under investigation, the Lincoln entered the intersection and crossed into the path of the Hyundai, which struck the driver’s side of the Lincoln.

Donald Williams and his wife Gwendolyn S. Williams-known to their family and friends as Don and Sue-were both properly restrained at the time of the crash. Despite being transported to nearby hospitals with serious injuries, both later succumbed to those injuries. The driver of the Hyundai, who was also properly restrained, sustained moderate injuries and was also taken to a local hospital. Routine toxicology samples were taken from both drivers as part of the ongoing investigation.

In the wake of the accident, Louisiana State Police reminded drivers of the importance  of driver awareness and caution at intersections, urging motorists to always come to a complete stop when required, check thoroughly for oncoming traffic, and proceed only when it is safe. They also stressed that obeying traffic signals, following right-of-way rules, avoiding distractions, and never driving while impaired are all critical steps in preventing serious crashes and saving lives.

The couple’s pastor, Patrick Magee of Lee’s Creek Baptist Church, shared a heartfelt message on Facebook, describing Don and Sue as “two spiritual giants.” He added, “Don and Sue meant so much to all of us.” The community mourns the loss of the beloved couple as the investigation continues.