Lafayette, Louisiana – A wave of heartbreak has struck the community following the tragic death of Kyaria Arceneaux, a 22-year-old woman from Lafayette who died by suicide just days after celebrating her birthday.
Arceneaux, who was born and raised in Crowley, Louisiana, turned 22 on August 13, 2025. Friends say she spent part of her special day singing “happy birthday” to herself before downing a Julio bottle. Days later, she was found deceased inside her car — a devastating loss that has left her family, friends, and community in deep mourning.
Kyaria was a proud graduate of Northside High School in Lafayette and later pursued her studies at Unitech Training Academy. She was described as a young woman with an infectious laugh, a radiant spirit, and an unwavering love for her siblings, who were central to her world.
Authorities revealed that before her death, Kyaria left behind a handwritten letter to her siblings. The letter expressed both her love and her regrets, offering a heartbreaking glimpse into the silent battle with depression that she endured. Those close to her say she often masked her pain with smiles and laughter, never fully revealing the depth of her struggles.
“She had so much life and light in her, but inside she was fighting a storm we didn’t see,” one family friend shared. “It hurts us to know she felt she had to carry it all alone.”
The news of her passing has touched many in Lafayette and Crowley, with tributes flooding social media in her memory. Friends, classmates, and loved ones are remembering her as a kind soul who deserved so much more time than she was given.
Mental health experts are urging the public to use this tragedy as a call to action. Depression and suicidal thoughts often remain hidden, even from those closest to someone. Community members are being reminded to check on their loved ones and to take signs of mental distress seriously.
Arceneaux’s death serves as a painful reminder of the importance of compassion, awareness, and open conversations about mental health.
If you or someone you know is struggling with depression or suicidal thoughts, please know that help is available. Call or text the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline for immediate, confidential support, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.