LAUREL, MS — Tragedy Strikes in Laurel as Zaxby’s Employee Killed in North 16th Avenue Crash
The community of Laurel, Mississippi, is reeling from a heartbreaking car crash that claimed the life of a beloved local resident and Zaxby’s employee, Lauren Shows, on the evening of Saturday, July 19, 2025. The fatal collision occurred around 5:30 p.m. in front of the Zaxby’s restaurant on North 16th Avenue, a bustling area often filled with local traffic.
The Incident: A Fatal Collision on a Busy Laurel Roadway
According to the Laurel Police Department, the tragic accident unfolded when a vehicle traveling northbound on North 16th Avenue collided with another car attempting to pull out of the Zaxby’s parking lot.
In a moment that changed lives forever, the two vehicles collided with devastating force. Emergency responders rushed to the scene, but despite their swift efforts, 40-year-old Lauren Shows — a driver involved in the crash — succumbed to injuries sustained in the accident.
The other driver involved sustained minor injuries and was treated at the scene. Thankfully, no other passengers were reported to be involved.
Remembering Lauren Shows: A Community Mourns
The Jones County Coroner confirmed the identity of the deceased as Lauren Shows, a dedicated employee of Zaxby’s. Known among coworkers and customers alike for her friendly demeanor and hardworking spirit, Lauren’s death has sent shockwaves through the local community and beyond.
Friends and colleagues describe Lauren as a kind-hearted individual who treated every customer like family. Whether she was serving food with a smile or lending a hand to a fellow team member, Lauren’s compassion and commitment never went unnoticed.
“She was more than just a coworker,” one Zaxby’s team member shared. “Lauren was like a sister to many of us. We’re heartbroken. It doesn’t feel real.”
Community Response and Reflections
Laurel Police Chief Earl Reed expressed his condolences during a public statement, reflecting the community’s shared grief.
“My heart goes out to the victims,” Chief Reed said. “We definitely will keep them in prayer.”
The loss of Lauren has left a profound impact on the Zaxby’s team and the Laurel community at large. Local residents have begun placing flowers and messages of sympathy near the crash site in a spontaneous tribute to a life lost too soon.
Community leaders are also calling for increased awareness and caution along North 16th Avenue, which has seen its share of accidents over the years, especially in high-traffic zones near businesses.
Ongoing Investigation: Questions Remain
At this time, the Laurel Police Department continues to investigate the exact circumstances of the crash. Authorities have not yet released detailed findings regarding potential contributing factors, such as speed, driver distraction, or road conditions.
Police have assured the public that a thorough investigation is underway and that any additional information will be made available as soon as possible.
A Stark Reminder of Road Safety
This tragedy serves as a sobering reminder of how quickly life can change on the road. Everyday situations — like pulling out of a parking lot — can turn deadly in a matter of seconds. Local safety advocates are using this incident to highlight the importance of cautious driving, attentiveness, and patience, especially in busy commercial areas.
Accidents like the one that claimed Lauren’s life underscore the critical need for both drivers and businesses to work together in promoting safer traffic practices, including:
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Improved signage and visibility around parking lot exits.
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Cautious driving in high-traffic business zones.
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Community awareness campaigns focused on roadway safety.
Honoring Lauren’s Legacy
As Laurel mourns the loss of Lauren Shows, friends, family, and community members are coming together to honor her memory. Plans for a community vigil and a memorial service are expected to be announced in the coming days. Those who knew Lauren are sharing stories of her warmth, her laughter, and her unwavering kindness.
Her family has asked for privacy as they grieve this unimaginable loss, but they have expressed gratitude for the outpouring of love and support from the Laurel community.
Conclusion: A Community United in Grief
The tragic death of Lauren Shows has cast a shadow over Laurel, serving as a painful reminder of life’s fragility and the importance of road safety. As the investigation continues, the community stands united in grief, remembering a woman who touched many lives with her kindness and heart.
The Laurel Police Department encourages anyone with information about the incident to come forward as they work to piece together the full picture of what happened.
In the days ahead, Laurel will mourn, remember, and honor Lauren Shows — a cherished friend, a dedicated worker, and a beloved member of the community whose memory will live on in the hearts of those she touched.
Rest in peace, Lauren. Your light will not be forgotten.