News Summary
A tragic accident occurred in Shreveport when Paula Garcia was fatally struck by a vehicle while crossing Jewella Avenue. The incident, investigated by local authorities, highlights ongoing concerns regarding pedestrian safety. Witnesses reported Garcia was running across the street and wearing dark clothing, potentially affecting her visibility. The driver remained at the scene, and investigations continue as the community reflects on the importance of road safety.
Shreveport – A woman was fatally struck by a vehicle on July 25 at 9:45 p.m., at the intersection of Jewella Avenue and Sumner Street in Shreveport, Louisiana. The victim, identified as Paula Garcia, suffered severe injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene of the incident, prompting investigations by local authorities.
The Shreveport Police Department’s Crash Investigation Unit is currently examining the circumstances surrounding the collision. According to reports, at the time of the incident, a woman was driving a 2007 Chevrolet HHR southbound on Jewella Avenue. Prior to striking Garcia, the vehicle was stopped at a red light at Jewella Avenue and Jackson Street. When the light turned green, the driver accelerated and hit Garcia as she was running across the street.
Witnesses indicated that Garcia was running at the time of the accident, and it was noted that she was wearing black clothing, which may have impacted her visibility to the driver. The driver remained at the scene and voluntarily submitted to a chemical test. At this time, police do not suspect impairment as a contributing factor to the incident.
The ongoing investigation is being led by the Caddo Parish Coroner’s Office, which will determine the official cause of death and further details regarding the incident. Additionally, the Shreveport Police Department has emphasized the importance of adhering to pedestrian safety laws and remaining vigilant while driving or crossing the road.
Details of the Incident
On the night of July 25, the driver approached the intersection of Jewella Avenue and Jackson Street. After stopping for a red light, the driver proceeded to enter the intersection when the light changed. At that moment, Garcia was attempting to cross Jewella Avenue.
Investigation Progress
The Shreveport Police Department’s Crash Investigation Unit is actively conducting an inquiry into the accident. The investigation will review factors such as visibility conditions, the speed of the vehicle, and pedestrian safety compliance at the intersection.
Community Impact and Safety Emphasis
This tragic incident has raised concerns regarding pedestrian safety in Shreveport. The police department urges both drivers and pedestrians to prioritize safety measures. They underline the importance of following traffic laws and being aware of surroundings to prevent future tragic accidents.
Background on Pedestrian Safety
Pedestrian fatalities are a growing concern in urban areas as the number of vehicles on the road increases. Safety campaigns often highlight the need for both drivers and pedestrians to exercise caution, especially in busy intersections. Darkness and inconspicuous clothing can further complicate visibility issues, raising the stakes for all road users.
As the investigation into Paula Garcia’s death continues, the Shreveport community reflects on the need for increased awareness regarding road safety to ensure similar incidents do not occur in the future.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Shreveport Woman Fatally Struck by Vehicle While Crossing Avenue
Tragic Vehicle Crash in Shreveport Claims Life
Shreveport Drowning Incident Sparks Alarm Over Pool Safety
Tragic Pool Incident Claims Life in Shreveport
Man Drowns at Shreveport Elks Lodge Pool
Shreveport Woman Charged After Hitting Officer with Vehicle
NLCOG Seeks Public Input on Traffic Congestion in Northwest Louisiana
Two Arrested in Brutal Beating Incident in Shreveport
Exploring the Best Fishing Spots in Northwest Louisiana
Traffic Congestion Survey Launched in North Louisiana
Additional Resources
- KSLA: Shreveport Police Investigating Fatal Pedestrian vs Car Crash
- Wikipedia: Pedestrian Safety
- KTAL News: Fatal Railroad Incident in Shreveport
- Google Search: Pedestrian Safety Laws
- Shreveport Times: Youngest Mayor Candidate Dies in Crossing
- Google Scholar: Pedestrian Accidents
- Bossier Press: Bossier City Police Respond to Pedestrian Hit by Train
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Traffic Safety
- KTBS: Pedestrian Killed in South Bossier Parish Incident
- Google News: Pedestrian Accidents in Shreveport

Author: STAFF HERE SHREVEPORT WRITER
The SHREVEPORT STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREShreveport.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Shreveport, Caddo 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 Mudbug Madness Festival, Red River Revel Arts Festival, and Independence Bowl. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Shreveport-Bossier Chamber of Commerce and Shreveport Regional Arts Council, plus leading businesses in gaming, healthcare, and energy that power the local economy such as Horseshoe Casino, Ochsner LSU Health, and Atmos Energy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBatonRouge.com and HERENewOrleans.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Louisiana's dynamic landscape.

