CHOCTAW COUNTY, Ala. — The Choctaw County community is mourning the untimely passing of 33-year-old Ladarius J. Washam of Waynesboro, who tragically lost his life in an ATV accident on Saturday evening. His sudden death has left family, friends, and neighbors grappling with shock and grief as they remember a man described as kind-hearted, hardworking, and full of life.
According to the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA), Washam was operating a Honda ATV on Shady Grove Road around 7:10 p.m. when the vehicle ran off the roadway and collided with a parked Can-Am Renegade ATV. Emergency responders quickly arrived at the scene and transported Washam to Ochsner Choctaw General Hospital in Butler. Despite the tireless efforts of medical personnel, he later succumbed to his injuries, leaving a community devastated by the loss of a young life taken far too soon.
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Authorities from ALEA’s Highway Patrol Division continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the accident, seeking to determine exactly how the tragic incident occurred. Officials have urged anyone with information related to the crash to come forward and assist with the investigation.
Ladarius was remembered by friends and family as a vibrant and energetic individual who loved spending time outdoors and was deeply committed to those he cared about. “He had a great sense of humor and a way of making everyone feel welcome and valued,” one close friend shared. “His presence brightened every room, and he had a spirit that drew people to him. This loss is unimaginable.”
The accident has sent ripples of sorrow throughout the Waynesboro and Choctaw County community. Neighbors and community members have begun gathering in support of Washam’s family, offering condolences, prayers, and assistance during this difficult time. Social media tributes have also poured in, with many recalling Ladarius’s kindness, generosity, and the positive impact he had on those around him.
Experts and local authorities have also highlighted the importance of ATV safety, noting that even experienced riders face risks on rural and uneven terrain. Community leaders have encouraged residents to exercise caution when operating recreational vehicles and to always follow safety protocols to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
As the investigation continues, Ladarius’s family, friends, and community members are left to cherish the memories of his life, hold onto the love he shared, and support one another through their shared grief. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him, serving as a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of valuing each moment with loved ones.
Ladarius J. Washam’s life, spirit, and legacy will not be forgotten.