DERIDDER, La. — The Beauregard Parish community is grieving the heartbreaking loss of one of its own after a tragic early morning crash on july 15 2025 claimed the life of 23-year-old Jonathan Ashworth, a dedicated volunteer firefighter from DeRidder.
According to Louisiana State Police Troop D, the fatal single-vehicle crash occurred on Tuesday, July 15, 2025, shortly after 4:00 a.m. along Scallon Road, just south of Louisiana Highway 26. Ashworth was behind the wheel of a 2017 Ford F-150, responding to an emergency call to assist his community when the tragic incident occurred.
Preliminary investigations reveal that while navigating a curve, the Ford unexpectedly veered off the roadway to the left and struck multiple trees. The impact of the crash was severe, and despite the swift arrival of emergency responders, Ashworth sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene.
Authorities are continuing to investigate the exact cause of the crash. Due to the extent of the damage to the vehicle, it is still unclear whether Ashworth was properly restrained at the time of the accident. A passenger traveling with him, who was wearing a seatbelt, survived the crash but sustained moderate injuries and was transported to a local hospital for treatment.
A routine toxicology sample was collected from Ashworth, in accordance with standard protocol, and has been sent for analysis. Louisiana State Police confirmed that the investigation into this tragic incident remains active as they work to piece together what led to the fatal accident.
The loss of Jonathan Ashworth has sent shockwaves through DeRidder and the wider Beauregard Parish. Ashworth was not just a firefighter; he was a young man committed to service, someone who put others first and answered the call to protect his neighbors even in the early hours of the morning. Friends and fellow firefighters described him as kind-hearted, brave, and deeply passionate about helping others.
“Jonathan was the kind of person who never hesitated to help,” said a fellow firefighter. “He had a heart of gold, and he was always willing to run toward danger if it meant saving someone else. His loss is a tremendous blow to all of us.”
Local fire stations have lowered their flags to half-staff in honor of Ashworth’s service and sacrifice. Plans are already underway for a memorial service to celebrate his life and dedication to the community.
As the investigation continues, the community holds Ashworth’s family, friends, and fellow first responders close in their thoughts and prayers. Jonathan Ashworth gave his time, his effort, and ultimately his life in the service of others — a true testament to the selfless spirit of volunteer firefighters everywhere.
Beauregard Parish remembers him not just for how he died, but for how he lived: with courage, kindness, and an unwavering commitment to serving those in need.
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