BATON ROUGE, La. — The East Baton Rouge community is mourning the tragic loss of two young Teens , Dakota Carter, 20, and Justin Howard, 21, who were killed in a devastating single-vehicle crash during the early morning hours of Wednesday, July 23, 2025.
According to the East Baton Rouge Parish Coroner’s Office, the fatal accident occurred at approximately 12:30 a.m. in the 9300 block of Highland Road, a stretch of road that locals say is known for its winding curves and limited lighting at night. The two victims were pronounced dead at the scene despite swift emergency response efforts.
Preliminary investigations suggest that the vehicle, reportedly traveling westbound at a high rate of speed, suddenly lost control for reasons that remain unclear. The car is said to have crossed over into the eastbound lane, then veered off the roadway and struck a utility pole with great force. The impact was so severe that first responders had to cut both young men from the wreckage using special extrication tools.
The East Baton Rouge Police Department is leading the investigation into the cause of the crash, and while speed is believed to be a contributing factor, authorities have not ruled out other possibilities, such as road conditions, mechanical failure, or potential impairment. Toxicology reports and further analysis are pending.
The sudden and violent nature of the crash has left family, friends, and the wider Baton Rouge community stunned and grieving. Dakota Carter and Justin Howard were both described by those who knew them as vibrant and kind-hearted individuals, full of life and potential. Social media has since been flooded with tributes, memories, and messages of heartbreak from those who are struggling to come to terms with the news.
One friend wrote, “Dakota had the brightest smile and could light up any room. He was more than a friend — he was like family.” Another post honoring Justin shared, “He was always there when you needed someone. Just a genuinely good soul gone way too soon.”
As the investigation continues, officials are urging all drivers—especially young motorists—to take extra care when behind the wheel. Speed and inexperience can quickly turn a moment of carelessness into a tragedy, and this heartbreaking accident serves as a grim reminder of how precious and fragile life is.
The families of Dakota and Justin are being supported by grief counselors and loved ones as they begin the unimaginable task of planning funerals for two young men whose lives were cut far too short. Details regarding memorial services are expected to be announced in the coming days.
The East Baton Rouge Parish Coroner’s Office and police investigators have asked that anyone who may have witnessed the crash or has information that could aid in the investigation to come forward.
For now, the city of Baton Rouge pauses to mourn two promising lives lost too soon, and to reflect on the enduring cost of road tragedies that leave a lasting impact on families and communities.
Leave a Reply