Oakdale Community Mourns the Heartbreaking Loss of 13-Year-Old Kyndal Vidrine Following Tragic UTV Accident

Oakdale, Louisiana – A profound and heartbreaking sorrow has enveloped the tight-knit Oakdale community and the greater Rapides Parish region following the untimely and tragic death of 13-year-old Kyndal Vidrine. Kyndal lost her life in a devastating utility terrain vehicle (UTV) accident that occurred in the early morning hours of Sunday, June 22, 2025, on West River Road, just south of Highway 112.

According to initial reports from Louisiana State Police Troop E, emergency responders were dispatched shortly after 1:00 a.m. following a 911 call about a serious crash involving a UTV. The vehicle, which was carrying multiple young occupants, reportedly overturned while navigating a rural curve on an unlit section of the roadway. Kyndal, who was a passenger, sustained critical injuries in the rollover and was tragically pronounced dead at the scene. She was not wearing a seatbelt or helmet at the time of the accident—factors which authorities noted likely contributed to the severity of her injuries.

The other individuals in the UTV sustained varying injuries and were transported to nearby medical facilities for treatment. None of the injuries reported among the survivors are believed to be life-threatening. State Police are continuing their investigation into the incident, including whether speed, lighting conditions, or operator inexperience played a role in the crash.

Kyndal’s sudden passing has sent shockwaves throughout Oakdale, where she was a well-known and beloved presence. A student at Oakdale Middle School, Kyndal was admired for her bright smile, kind spirit, and unwavering loyalty to her family and friends. Teachers describe her as curious and compassionate, someone who lit up the classroom and brought joy to those around her. She was actively involved in youth sports, particularly softball, and was a proud member of her church’s youth group.

“She had a light about her that you just couldn’t ignore,” said one of her coaches, holding back tears. “Whether she was cheering on a teammate or helping clean up after a game, Kyndal was always there with a heart full of love and a smile on her face. She was the kind of kid you hoped your own children would grow up to be like.”

Her family, utterly devastated, has requested privacy during this unimaginable time. In a brief statement shared through a family friend, they described Kyndal as “our sunshine, our heart, and our greatest joy. There are no words that can ever express the pain of losing her, but we are grateful for the outpouring of love and support from the community.”

In the wake of the tragedy, the Oakdale Middle School has activated its crisis response team to provide grief counseling and support for students and faculty. A candlelight vigil is planned for Tuesday evening at the Oakdale Community Park, where classmates, teachers, teammates, and loved ones will gather to honor Kyndal’s memory, share stories, and find comfort in one another.

As the community grapples with the weight of this loss, local leaders and law enforcement are also using the moment to stress the importance of UTV safety—particularly among younger riders. UTVs, while often used for recreational purposes in rural Louisiana, carry significant risk, especially when operated on public roads or at night.

“This is a tragic and painful reminder of how quickly joy can turn into heartbreak,” said a spokesperson for the Louisiana State Police. “We urge all families to speak with their children about the importance of safety measures, including the use of helmets and seatbelts. No one thinks this will ever happen to them—until it does.”

Kyndal Vidrine’s life, though heartbreakingly short, left an indelible impact on all who knew her. Her laughter, kindness, and spirit will live on in the memories of her family, friends, classmates, and coaches. She leaves behind her loving parents, siblings, grandparents, extended family, and countless others who adored her deeply.

In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that donations be made to local youth sports programs or church youth ministries in Kyndal’s memory—causes that meant so much to her during her brief but beautiful life.

As Oakdale mourns, one thing remains heartbreakingly clear: Kyndal Vidrine will never be forgotten.