Teen killed in auto-pedestrian accident

VIDOR - Police have released the name of a Vidor teenager killed when a driver struck him as he walked on Highway 12.

James Donald Staton, 17, of Vidor, was hit at about 9 p.m. Wednesday in the 5400 block of Highway 12, east of Liston Road, as he walked east on or along the white line separating the traffic lane from the shoulder, according to Vidor Police Department Assistant Chief Rex Carter.

Melinda Denise LaCour, 35, of Orange, was with her two children, a daughter 12, and a son, 9, and driving a blue Expedition in the same direction. Carter said LaCour told police she saw Staton as she approached, but was unable to avoid hitting him as he stepped into the lane of traffic, Carter said.

Staton was treated at the scene and died at Christus Hospital St. Elizabeth.

Caleb Scott Fowler, 17, of Vidor, was reportedly walking with Staton at the time of the crash, Carter said. He wasn't hurt.

No charges have been filed.

Staton was the son of Rose City Marshal Kelly Staton.

Carter said police don't believe Staton intended to step into the traffic lane.