Jeffery Garner Obituary, DeRidder, Louisiana, Death: 62-Year-Old Dies After Being Struck by Vehicle at E. 1st Street Car Wash

The DeRidder, Louisiana, community is mourning the death of Jeffery L. Garner, 62, who died after being struck by a vehicle while washing his car at a business on East 1st Street Sunday afternoon, August 30, 2026. The fatal incident remains under investigation by the DeRidder Police Department.

Police said officers were called to the area shortly after 1:30 p.m. following reports of a serious crash near a local car wash. Investigators determined that a 2011 Chevrolet Camaro had been traveling westbound on E. 1st Street when it left the roadway for reasons that have not yet been established. The vehicle entered the car wash parking lot and struck Garner, who was washing his vehicle at the time.

Emergency personnel responded to the scene and transported Garner to a local hospital for treatment. Despite medical efforts, he was later pronounced dead from injuries sustained in the crash. The driver and passenger of the Camaro were also taken to a Lake Charles-area hospital for medical treatment.

Authorities have not publicly identified the driver or announced any charges in connection with the collision. A toxicology sample was obtained from the driver as investigators work to determine whether any factors contributed to the vehicle leaving the roadway. Police have emphasized that the investigation is ongoing.

Garner’s sudden death has left family, friends and members of the DeRidder community grieving. His passing came during what appeared to be an ordinary Sunday afternoon, making the loss especially difficult for those who knew him.

As investigators continue reconstructing the circumstances of the crash, officials have not released a specific cause for the vehicle leaving E. 1st Street. Further details may become available as the investigation progresses and authorities review the evidence and toxicology results.

Condolences are extended to Jeffery L. Garner’s family, friends and everyone affected by his unexpected passing.