Lake Charles Tragedy: 25-Year-Old Jacob Hummel Killed in Fiery Head-On Crash on LA 14
Lake Charles, LA – In a devastating turn of events early Saturday morning, May 24, 2025, Louisiana State Police Troop D responded to the scene of a fatal two-vehicle crash on Louisiana Highway 14 near Linkswiller Road. The collision, which occurred just after 1:00 a.m., resulted in the death of 25-year-old Jacob Hummel of Lake Charles and left another driver critically injured.
According to preliminary reports released by State Police, the crash involved a 2016 Ford Mustang, driven by Hummel, and a 2021 Chevrolet Silverado pickup truck. Investigators believe that Hummel was traveling westbound on LA 14 at a high rate of speed when, for reasons still under investigation, his vehicle crossed the centerline and collided head-on with the Silverado, which was traveling eastbound.
The impact of the crash was catastrophic. Emergency responders from Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Office, Louisiana State Police, and local fire and rescue units arrived on scene within minutes of the first 911 calls. Tragically, Jacob Hummel was pronounced dead at the scene due to the severity of his injuries. He was reportedly wearing his seatbelt at the time of the crash.
The driver of the Silverado, a 38-year-old man from the Iowa, Louisiana area, sustained life-threatening injuries and was transported to a local hospital by Acadian Ambulance. Authorities have not yet released his name but confirmed he remains in critical condition as of Saturday afternoon.
Toxicology samples were collected from both drivers and will be submitted to the Louisiana State Police Crime Lab for analysis, as is standard procedure in fatal crash investigations. At this time, impairment has not been confirmed, and troopers continue to examine all contributing factors, including speed, road conditions, and driver behavior.
Jacob Hummel’s sudden passing has sent shockwaves through the Lake Charles community. Friends and family describe him as a vibrant and kind-hearted young man who loved music, the outdoors, and spending time with his close-knit circle of loved ones. Social media was quickly filled with heartfelt tributes and condolences as the news of his passing spread.
“He had so much life ahead of him,” one friend wrote on Facebook. “Jacob was always smiling, always ready to help anyone. This is just devastating.”
A memorial vigil is being planned in his honor for later this week at Prien Lake Park, where friends hope to gather to celebrate his life and share memories.
State Troopers are urging all motorists to drive responsibly, always wear seatbelts, avoid distractions, and never drive under the influence. In a statement, LSP Troop D emphasized that crashes like this one serve as tragic reminders of how quickly lives can be altered or lost.
“Even one life lost on our roadways is too many,” said Trooper First Class Derek Senegal, spokesperson for Troop D. “We extend our heartfelt condolences to the Hummel family and to all affected by this tragic event.”
The investigation remains ongoing, and anyone with information about the crash is encouraged to contact Louisiana State Police Troop D.
As the community mourns, the Hummel family has asked for privacy and prayers during this difficult time. Further details regarding funeral arrangements will be released in the coming days.