POINTE COUPEE PARISH, LA – A 74-year-old woman lost her life in a tragic accident after tandem tanker trailers detached from a John Deere tractor and veered off the road, striking her in her driveway.
Authorities identified the victim as Susan Shows, a resident of Lakeland, Louisiana. The Louisiana State Police (LSP) confirmed her identity and released details about the fatal incident, which occurred around 9:30 a.m. on Tuesday, March 18, on LA 1 near U.S. 190.
According to LSP troopers, the John Deere tractor was traveling southbound on LA 1 while hauling tandem tanker trailers. For reasons still under investigation, the trailers detached and veered off the roadway, fatally striking Shows. Emergency responders transported her to a nearby hospital, but she later succumbed to her injuries.
Investigators are working to determine what caused the trailers to detach, considering the possibility of mechanical failure, human error, or other contributing factors. LSP officials stated that impairment is not suspected, but as part of the standard investigative process, a toxicology sample will be analyzed.
The accident has left the Pointe Coupee Parish community in mourning. Neighbors and friends described Shows as a kind and caring person, expressing their shock and sadness over the devastating loss. The tragedy has also raised concerns about the safety of large farm vehicles operating near residential areas.
As the investigation continues, authorities are urging farm equipment operators to ensure their machinery is properly secured before use. Officials may also conduct further inspections of similar vehicles in the area to prevent future incidents. Loved ones of Susan Shows now seek answers and hope the findings will lead to improved safety measures for the community.
