News Summary
A tragic accident in Gretna, Louisiana, claimed the lives of a beloved couple, Hubert and Victoria Gauthreaux, after a high-speed collision. This incident has shocked the community, especially following the family’s previous loss of their grandson in a terror attack. The driver, Stephan Juarez, faces multiple charges, including vehicular homicide and reckless driving. The community mourns while supporting the Gauthreaux family through this unimaginable grief.
Tragedy Strikes Gretna: Couple Lost in Devastating Crash
Gretna, Louisiana, was the scene of a heart-wrenching tragedy on Saturday night. A married couple of 55 years, 76-year-old Hubert Gauthreaux and his 73-year-old wife, Victoria, lost their lives in a horrific crash that has left the community mourning.
The Gauthreauxs were not only beloved members of the Gretna community but also the proud grandparents of 21-year-old Hubert Gauthreaux III, who tragically fell victim to a terror attack in New Orleans this past New Year’s Day. Their family has faced unimaginable loss, and now they have to bear the heartbreak of losing both parents and grandparents in such a senseless manner.
High-Speed Collision
The fateful event unfolded around 6:40 p.m. when 33-year-old Stephan Juarez allegedly drove his 2015 GMC truck at dangerously high speeds. Eyewitnesses reported that Juarez crossed over the center line, leading to a catastrophic collision with a westbound 2011 GMC Yukon. The impact was severe enough to injure the driver and two passengers in that vehicle, but the nightmare didn’t end there.
After the initial collision, Juarez didn’t stop. Instead, he plowed into a parked 2022 Honda Pilot before barreling into a 2020 Volvo XC9, which tragically contained the Gauthreaux couple. The aftermath was described as disturbing, with one witness, a nurse who arrived on the scene, calling it “carnage,” filled with blood and debris. The picture painted by the witness underscores just how terrible and chaotic this accident was.
Immediate Response
Rescue crews quickly arrived, and both Hubert and Victoria Gauthreaux were rushed to University Hospital. Sadly, despite the best efforts of the medical team, both succumbed to their injuries shortly thereafter. The community is enveloped in grief as friends and family try to come to terms with the loss of such cherished individuals.
Juarez’s Charges
Stephan Juarez, meanwhile, escaped with minor injuries and was treated at a local hospital before being taken into custody. He has been charged with multiple offenses, including two counts of vehicular homicide, reckless operation of a vehicle, and driving while intoxicated as a second offense. Additionally, he was found to be driving with a suspended license and was in possession of marijuana. Juarez is now facing serious legal repercussions for his reckless actions that took the lives of the innocent couple.
Community Support
This tragic accident has sparked a wave of support for the Gauthreaux family from the Gretna community. Mayor Belinda C. Constant expressed her deep sorrow over the couple’s devastating deaths. In a time when many are celebrating the season, their loss serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by reckless driving and impaired individuals behind the wheel.
Investigation Continues
Authorities are currently conducting an investigation into the crash to gather all facts surrounding this heartbreaking incident. Families and loved ones are asking for clarity and justice as they grieve the loss of two individuals who meant the world to so many.
The Gauthreauxs’ legacy will undeniably live on in the hearts of those who knew them. This community will rally together in support of their family, ensuring that the memories of Hubery and Victoria will forever remain a cherished part of Gretna.
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Additional Resources
- WWLTV: High-Speed Crash in Gretna
- WIFR: Grandparents Killed by Drunken Driver
- NOLA: Olivia Matte Sentenced for Fatal Drunk Driving Incident
- MyArkLaMiss: Gretna Woman Dead in Drunk Driving Crash
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Drunk Driving
Author: STAFF HERE NEWORLEANS WRITER
NEW ORLEANS STAFF WRITER The NEW ORLEANS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENewOrleans.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in New Orleans, Orleans Parish, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as French Quarter Festival, New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, and Essence Music Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the New Orleans Chamber of Commerce and Greater New Orleans, Inc., plus leading businesses in energy, healthcare, and education that power the local economy such as Entergy, Ochsner Health, and Tulane University. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREShreveport.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Louisiana's dynamic landscape.
