Intoxicated Driver Crashes Into Slidell Home, Nearly Strikes Sleeping Child

Slidell, LA (BuzzReport) — A late-night crash in a quiet Slidell neighborhood nearly turned deadly Thursday, when an allegedly intoxicated driver slammed a vehicle directly into a child’s bedroom, authorities said.

Shortly before 11 p.m., officers with the Slidell Police Department responded to the 100 block of Dewald Drive after reports of a vehicle crashing into a residence. Upon arrival, officers discovered a gray Nissan Altima had driven completely through the exterior wall of the home and into a bedroom.

Police confirmed a 13-year-old boy was asleep in the bed at the time of the crash. Remarkably, the child suffered only minor physical injuries. Investigators noted that the child had recently rearranged his bedroom and moved his bed; under the previous layout, authorities believe the outcome could have been fatal.

The driver, identified as 20-year-old Alec Dillon of Slidell, remained at the scene and was described by officers as visibly intoxicated. Dillon was taken into custody and charged with second-offense DWI, reckless operation of a motor vehicle, vehicular negligent injuring, driving under suspension, and open container.

Slidell Police Chief Daniel Seuzeneau addressed the incident with strong words, calling the child’s survival a miracle and condemning impaired driving.

“God is good and truly had His hands on this miracle,” Seuzeneau said. “Drinking and driving is one of the most selfish things someone can do. In the world of ride-share apps, there is no excuse.”

The chief added that while emotions surrounding the incident run high, his hope is that Dillon seeks help and turns his life around. “At 20 years old, this is not a good start,” Seuzeneau said. “We are truly grateful this did not have a tragic outcome.”

The crash remains under investigation. Authorities are once again urging the public to make responsible choices and to never get behind the wheel while impaired, warning that the next incident may not end as fortunately.