Lake Charles, Louisiana – The Louisiana State Police Troop D is currently investigating a devastating two-vehicle crash that occurred in the early hours of Saturday, May 24, 2025. The collision, which took place on Louisiana Highway 14 near Linkswiller Road in Calcasieu Parish, has left the community reeling as it mourns the loss of a young Lake Charles resident, 25-year-old Jacob Hummel.
According to preliminary reports from Troop D, the incident occurred shortly after 2:00 a.m., when a passenger car driven by Hummel was traveling along LA 14. For reasons still under investigation, the car collided head-on with another vehicle traveling in the opposite direction. The force of the impact was severe, resulting in catastrophic damage to both vehicles.
Emergency services responded swiftly to the scene, but tragically, Jacob Hummel succumbed to his injuries before he could be transported to a hospital. He was pronounced dead at the scene by the Calcasieu Parish Coroner’s Office. Authorities have confirmed that Hummel was wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash.
The driver of the second vehicle, whose identity has not yet been released pending family notification, was critically injured in the crash. They were transported by emergency medical personnel to a nearby hospital and remain in intensive care. Their condition is listed as critical, and updates on their recovery are expected in the coming days.
Troopers say that routine toxicology samples were obtained from both drivers and will be submitted for analysis as part of the ongoing investigation. At this stage, investigators are working to determine whether impairment, speed, or roadway conditions may have played a role in the crash.
Jacob Hummel, a well-known member of the Lake Charles community, is being remembered by friends and loved ones as a kind-hearted and spirited young man with a bright future ahead of him. His sudden and untimely death has left a deep void in the hearts of many.
“This is a heartbreaking tragedy,” said a spokesperson from Louisiana State Police Troop D. “We extend our deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Mr. Hummel. Crashes like this are painful reminders of how precious and fragile life can be.”
As Troop D continues its investigation, they urge anyone who may have witnessed the crash or observed either vehicle prior to the collision to come forward with information. Witness accounts may prove vital in piecing together the exact sequence of events that led to the fatal crash.
Highway 14 was temporarily closed in both directions for several hours on Saturday morning as crash scene investigators worked to reconstruct the collision and crews cleared debris from the roadway. The highway has since been reopened.
Louisiana State Police continue to emphasize the importance of safe driving habits, especially during late-night and early-morning hours when visibility is reduced and driver fatigue or impairment may be more prevalent. They also encourage motorists to report any suspicious or unsafe driving behavior to local authorities.
The tragic loss of Jacob Hummel serves as a stark reminder of the dangers present on the roads and the importance of vigilance, responsibility, and caution behind the wheel.
More details will be released as the investigation progresses. Funeral arrangements for Jacob Hummel are expected to be announced by his family in the coming days.
Anyone with information related to the crash is urged to contact Louisiana State Police Troop D at (337) 491-2511.