Broussard holds memorial service for boy killed by driver in Livingston Parish in 2012

BROUSSARD, La. (KLFY) — A memorial ceremony was held for six-year-old Tyler Myers, who was killed by a hit-and-run driver in 2012. Tyler’s parents, Jamie and Ericka Myers, were joined by their neighbors and close friends to honor Tyler’s memory.

Four signs have been placed at a roundabout in Broussard. Each sign reads “Tyler Myers Memorial Circle” and has the messages “Don’t drink and drive” and “Don’t text and drive” underneath.

The Myers moved to Broussard in 2013, right after Tyler’s death. Ericka says that while it was a very emotional journey for her family, it meant a lot to her to have her neighbors and closest friends there with her during this special moment.

“It’s such an honor to see everyone rallying around something important,” Ericka said. “Our children are our future and when everyone comes together and protects our children, we protect the future.”

Tyler was killed by a hit-and-run driver in a Livingston Parish neighborhood on September 24, 2012. The driver, 33-year-old Brad Welch, was on his way home, authorities said, but was talking on his cellphone at the time. Young Tyler was riding his scooter on a sidewalk near Welch’s home. As Welch turned into his driveway, he struck Tyler and ran him over. A judge acquitted Welch of involuntary manslaughter in 2014.

Jamie believes this situation could have been avoided and advises drivers to always keep their eyes on the road.

“It’s frustrating when people mention the incident and call it an accident. An accident is not preventable,” Jamie said. “This was 100 percent preventable. If you’re looking down and not paying attention or you’re under the influence of alcohol, that’s a way to kill people.”

Ericka says she will always remember Tyler as a kind-hearted soul whose life was taken far too soon.

“One word I can use to describe Tyler would be magical,” Ericka said. “He was very wise and caring for his age.”

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