A tragic and devastating event unfolded in Gretna on Saturday evening, leaving two individuals dead and the local community in mourning. The incident, which took place around 6:40 p.m. in the 700 block of Fourth Street, was a high-speed crash that claimed the lives of Hubert Gauthreaux Sr. and Victoria Gauthreaux. The crash, involving multiple vehicles, has left not only their family but the entire Gretna community reeling from the shock and grief of this senseless loss.
According to the Gretna Police Department, Stephan Juarez, a 33-year-old man, was speeding eastbound on Fourth Street when he crossed the center line and collided with several vehicles, including one with passengers inside. The impact of the crash was devastating, and the authorities confirmed that both Hubert and Victoria Gauthreaux, beloved members of the community, died from the injuries they sustained during the collision.
Juarez, who sustained only minor injuries from the crash, was transported to Ochsner Hospital Westbank for treatment. However, upon his release from the hospital, he was arrested and charged with two counts of vehicular homicide, reckless operation of a vehicle, DWI second offense, driving with a suspended driver’s license, failure to wear a seatbelt, and possession of marijuana. The tragic nature of the crash, coupled with Juarez’s reckless behavior, has added to the anguish felt by the Gauthreaux family and the larger community.
The Gauthreaux family has been through unimaginable grief before. Hubert and Victoria Gauthreaux were the grandparents of 21-year-old Hubert Gauthreaux III, a victim of the horrific Bourbon Street terror attack. This second tragedy has compounded the pain and suffering the family is enduring, making the loss of two loved ones even more difficult to bear. The Gretna community, who had already rallied around the Gauthreaux family after the previous attack, is now coming together once again to offer support and condolences during this deeply painful time.
The city of Gretna will hold a prayer vigil at the site of the crash on Sunday at 4 p.m., bringing together residents, friends, and family members to honor the memory of Hubert and Victoria Gauthreaux and to offer prayers for healing and comfort to their grieving loved ones. In moments like these, it is more important than ever for communities to come together, provide solace, and help one another navigate through the unimaginable.
The incident also raises awareness of the consequences of reckless driving, especially when combined with other illegal behaviors such as driving under the influence and operating a vehicle with a suspended license. The loss of two innocent lives in such a tragic and preventable way serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of reckless actions on the road. While nothing can bring back the Gauthreaux family members who lost their lives in this crash, it is important for us all to recognize the impact of our decisions behind the wheel and the lasting repercussions that can result from careless and dangerous driving.
The community of Gretna is heartbroken over this tragedy, but it is also united in its resolve to support the Gauthreaux family and honor the memories of those who were lost. It is vital that, in moments of grief, we find strength in one another and commit to healing together. As the investigation continues and as the community mourns, the focus must remain on the loved ones left behind—on their grief, their healing, and their hope for justice.
In these incredibly difficult times, the support of friends, family, and neighbors becomes even more essential. The Gauthreaux family needs all the love and compassion that the community can offer as they come to terms with their overwhelming loss. It is moments like these that reveal the importance of kindness, understanding, and offering a helping hand when others are facing unfathomable pain.
As we remember Hubert and Victoria Gauthreaux and offer our deepest sympathies to their family, we must also reflect on the lasting impact that tragic events can have on the lives of those involved. For the community of Gretna, this is a moment to stand united in support, to pray for healing, and to ensure that the memory of the Gauthreaux family members lives on in the hearts of those who loved them. May the strength of the community provide comfort to the grieving, and may justice prevail as the investigation unfolds.
This senseless loss reminds us all to cherish every moment we have with our loved ones, to be responsible behind the wheel, and to support one another in times of crisis. Let the legacy of Hubert and Victoria Gauthreaux be one of love, community, and the enduring power of togetherness.
