Driver Arrested After Firefighter And Fiancée Killed In Baton Rouge Crash

A birthday celebration ended in tragedy early Sunday morning when a firefighter and his fiancée were struck and killed by a vehicle in Baton Rouge.

Shane Hirstius, 21, an operator and firefighter with the Third District Volunteer Fire Department, and his fiancée, Leah Fonte, 21, died following the October 18, 2026, crash.

20-Year-Old Driver Arrested

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Mia Camille Dawson, 20, was arrested in connection with the crash and faces multiple charges, including vehicular homicide, operating while impaired, hit-and-run driving, reckless operation, and vehicular negligent injuring.

The crash occurred around 2:40 a.m. along Nicholson Drive in Baton Rouge.

According to Baton Rouge Police, Dawson was driving a 2016 Nissan Rogue when the vehicle left the roadway and struck Hirstius and Fonte as they walked along the shoulder.

Fonte was pronounced dead at the scene. Hirstius was transported to a hospital, where he later died.

Police located Dawson farther down Nicholson Drive following the collision.

The circumstances surrounding the crash remain under investigation. Dawson is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.

Two Young Lives Cut Short

Hirstius was remembered by his fellow firefighters as a dedicated first responder who loved serving others and never hesitated to help someone in need.

His fiancée, Leah Fonte, was a senior at Louisiana State University, pursuing a degree in biological sciences on a pre-dental track. She had dreams of becoming a dentist.

The couple had been celebrating a birthday with friends before the tragedy.

Fire Departments Mourn Their Loss

Third District Volunteer Fire Department Assistant Fire Chief Alex Gorman issued an emotional statement remembering Hirstius as more than a firefighter, describing him as part of the department’s family.

Gorman also remembered Fonte for her kindness, compassion, and the happiness she brought to those around her.

St. Tammany Fire District No. 8 joined others in expressing condolences to the families and the Third District Volunteer Fire Department.

The department has asked the public to respect both families’ privacy as they grieve and investigators continue their work.

The Rabbit Hole News extends its condolences to the Hirstius and Fonte families and everyone affected by this tragedy.