Eugene Gillyard Jr. and Crystal Howard die in fatal Shreveport train crash
Fatal Shreveport train crash deaths of Eugene Gillyard Jr. and Crystal Howard
The Caddo Parish Coroner’s Office has officially identified the two victims killed in a tragic train collision that occurred on October 6th. The incident resulted from their vehicle being struck by a freight train in the Cedar Grove neighborhood of Shreveport.
Eugene Gillyard Jr., aged 24, and Crystal Howard, aged 36, were pronounced deceased at the scene at 2:09 a.m. on Monday following the impact. Post-mortem examinations have been requested for both individuals. The fatal collision happened at a railroad crossing on E 85th Street near Fairfield Avenue.
According to the Shreveport Police Department, emergency responders discovered the two individuals inside the vehicle had succumbed to their injuries upon arrival. Preliminary investigation reports indicate a maroon 2011 Nissan Armada was traveling eastbound on E 85th Street when it crossed the tracks, despite warning signals flashing. The driver disregarded the raised barrier arm before proceeding.
The Kansas City Southern freight train, moving under 40 mph, struck the vehicle’s driver side. The force of the collision caused the SUV to overturn, ejecting its occupants. Both the driver and backseat passenger did not survive. An investigation is currently underway to determine the exact cause of the driver’s decision to proceed against the warning signals.
Police authorities notified family members about the fatalities and subsequently learned a third person was present in the vehicle during the incident. This individual, who reported being in the front passenger seat, stated the driver ignored the crossing arms. He was transported to a hospital for treatment of his injuries.
Scene investigators also confirmed a canine companion inside the vehicle was killed during the collision. Further examination of the train’s speed and the vehicle’s actions is part of the ongoing police inquiry.
