Gueydan Community Grieves the Heartbreaking Loss of 21-Year-Old Mason Hanks Following Tragic Vehicle Accident
GUEYDAN, La. — The small, close-knit town of Gueydan is reeling from an overwhelming wave of grief after the sudden and tragic death of Mason Hanks, a 21-year-old local resident whose life was cut short in a fatal vehicle accident near Clesmae Road. Known and loved for his infectious energy, generous heart, and unshakable bond with his family and community, Mason’s passing has left a profound void that words alone cannot fill.
The accident occurred in the early hours of [insert exact date, if known], when Mason’s vehicle reportedly left the roadway under still-undetermined circumstances. Emergency responders arrived quickly to the rural stretch of road outside town, but despite their best efforts, Mason was pronounced dead at the scene. No other vehicles are believed to have been involved.
The Vermilion Parish Sheriff’s Office is currently leading the investigation into the accident. Officials have not yet released additional details about what may have caused the crash, but early reports suggest weather and road conditions may have played a factor. Toxicology reports and further forensic analysis are pending.
A Beloved Son, Brother, and Friend
The pain of Mason’s loss is being deeply felt by everyone who knew him. A graduate of Gueydan High School, Mason was remembered as someone who brought joy into every room he walked into — a young man full of promise, laughter, and compassion.
“He wasn’t just my son, he was my best friend,” said Angela Hanks, Mason’s mother, through tears. “He had the biggest heart. He loved this town, and he loved people. If he called you his friend, he meant it for life.”
Mason worked locally in the construction field and had dreams of starting his own business. He was known to spend his weekends fishing in the marshes, helping his grandparents with odd jobs, or hosting bonfires for friends. He loved hunting, football, and good Cajun cooking — but more than anything, Mason loved his people.
“He lived fully, even in a short time,” said Dustin Leblanc, one of Mason’s lifelong friends. “We all thought we had years left with him. It still doesn’t feel real.”
Community in Mourning
News of Mason’s passing spread quickly through Gueydan — a town where everyone knows everyone. Within hours, his family home was surrounded by friends, neighbors, and loved ones offering food, prayers, and support. Local businesses have posted memorial signs, and social media has been flooded with tributes and photos honoring Mason’s life.
A candlelight vigil is planned for [Insert Date] at Gueydan Town Park, where the community will come together to share stories, grieve collectively, and pay tribute to a life that ended far too soon. Organizers say the event will include a balloon release and a moment of silence.
Pastor Raymond Broussard of Gueydan First Baptist Church, where Mason occasionally attended services, called the tragedy a “gut-wrenching loss.”
“Mason was one of our own,” said Broussard. “His energy, his smile, his presence — we feel it missing. We’re praying not just for his family, but for every young person struggling with the weight of grief right now.”
Honoring Mason’s Legacy
Mason’s family is in the process of establishing the Mason Hanks Memorial Fund, which will support local youth programs and provide scholarships for students pursuing vocational careers — a nod to Mason’s passion for working with his hands and helping others find purpose through skilled trades.
“He wanted to build something that lasted,” said his uncle, Ronnie Thibodeaux. “He may not be here to see it, but through this fund and through the lives he touched, his impact will live on.”
Funeral Arrangements
Funeral services for Mason Hanks will be held at Matthews & Son Funeral Home in Gueydan on [Insert Date], with public visitation beginning the evening prior. A burial will follow at Gueydan Cemetery, where friends and family will say their final goodbyes.
The family has invited the public to attend and encouraged those who knew Mason to wear camouflage or LSU colors — two things Mason loved dearly.
A Life Remembered
Though Mason’s life was brief, it was full of purpose, love, and authenticity. He left behind more than just memories — he left behind a legacy of what it means to live loud, love hard, and always show up for others.
In the words of one mourner:
“Mason Hanks was a light in this town. And even in the darkness of this loss, that light will continue to shine.”
Rest in peace, Mason. Gueydan will never forget you.
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