Tributes Pour In After Church Point Senior Killed In ATV Crash

A tragic crash in Acadia Parish has claimed the life of a local high school senior, leaving a community grieving just weeks before graduation.

According to Louisiana State Police, the crash happened on Saturday (April 11), shortly after 8:00 p.m. along Louisiana Highway 95 near Wikoff Cove Drive.

Investigators say a 2005 Honda TRX90 ATV was traveling north on the highway when it was struck from behind by a 2008 Audi Q7. Authorities say the ATV did not have lights illuminated at the time of the crash.

The impact caused the ATV to overturn, ejecting the rider, identified as 17-year-old Hayden Castille of Branch. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

The driver of the Audi was not properly restrained but did not report any injuries. Toxicology samples were collected as part of the ongoing investigation.

A Community Mourning The Loss

The loss has deeply impacted the Church Point community, especially at Church Point High School, where Castille was a senior preparing to graduate in just a few weeks.

A social media post from a community member described him as a “great kid” who was actively involved in welding school and part of a close-knit team, adding to the heartbreak felt across campus. The school also shared a message asking for prayers, acknowledging the overwhelming grief felt by students, staff, and families during this difficult time.

Outpouring Of Support And Tributes

Hundreds of comments flooded social media as friends, classmates, and community members shared memories, prayers, and heartbreak in real time.

Many expressed disbelief and sorrow, with one person writing, “my baby cousin you will be missed,” while another shared, “Love you Hayden! Rip cuz.” Others simply wrote “Rest easy,” or offered prayers and condolences to his family, friends, and classmates. Messages like “you’ll forever be missed and loved,” “praying for his family and the entire Bear family,” and “sending love and prayers to everyone who knew him” were posted by many who are leaning on each other and trying to process the sudden loss.

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Safety Reminder From State Police

Louisiana State Police are reminding the public that ATVs and UTVs are not allowed on roadways unless directly related to farming or specific duties outlined by state law.

They also emphasize that operation is limited to daylight hours and that safety equipment, including helmets and proper restraints, can significantly reduce the risk of serious injury or death.

From all of us at Townsquare Media, we send love and light to Hayden's family, his classmates, and the entire Church Point community heartbroken by the loss.

The crash remains under investigation.