Laurel, Mississippi Grieves the Loss of Beloved Zaxby’s Employee Lauren Shows in Tragic Car Crash
Laurel, Mississippi – The tight-knit community of Laurel is grappling with an overwhelming sense of grief and heartbreak following a devastating car crash that claimed the life of 26-year-old Lauren Shows on the evening of Saturday, July 19, 2025. Known for her radiant spirit, generous heart, and unwavering work ethic, Lauren’s sudden and tragic passing has sent shockwaves through her workplace, her family and friends, and the entire town that she lovingly called home.
The fatal accident occurred along a stretch of Highway 15 just outside the city limits, shortly after 8:30 p.m., according to local authorities. Emergency responders rushed to the scene following reports of a two-vehicle collision. Tragically, despite lifesaving efforts, Lauren was pronounced dead at the scene due to the severity of her injuries. Details about the cause of the accident are still under investigation, though initial reports indicate that weather conditions may have played a contributing role.
Lauren Shows had been a valued employee at the Laurel Zaxby’s for several years, where she was not only known for her reliability and dedication but also for the warmth and positivity she brought to every customer interaction. Colleagues and customers alike recall her infectious smile, her ability to brighten even the most stressful days, and the deep kindness she extended to everyone who walked through the doors.
“She wasn’t just a coworker – she was family,” said Teresa Martin, a shift manager at Zaxby’s. “Lauren cared deeply about everyone she worked with. She always made sure the new hires felt welcome, and she would go out of her way to help anyone. Her loss has left a hole in our hearts that we don’t know how to fill.”
Outside of work, Lauren was cherished by a wide circle of friends and was deeply connected to her family. A lifelong resident of Jones County, she graduated from West Jones High School and remained close with many of her classmates and teachers. She was known for her love of music, animals—especially her rescue dog, Ollie—and her quiet but fierce support for local causes, including food drives and community cleanup efforts.
Her parents, James and Melissa Shows, described her as their “shining light,” a daughter who never stopped caring for others and always gave more than she had. “She was a beautiful soul with a huge heart,” said her mother through tears. “She loved deeply, she laughed loudly, and she lived every moment fully. She had dreams, plans, and so much more to give to this world. We can’t imagine our lives without her.”
In the days since the tragedy, an outpouring of support has flooded social media, with hundreds sharing tributes, photos, and heartfelt messages in Lauren’s memory. A makeshift memorial has been established outside the Zaxby’s location on 16th Avenue, with flowers, candles, and handwritten notes placed beneath a framed photo of Lauren smiling in her uniform.
The management at Zaxby’s released a statement saying, “Lauren Shows was a shining example of what it means to be part of a team, to serve with joy, and to connect with people on a human level. We are heartbroken by her loss and will be honoring her memory in the days to come.”
A candlelight vigil is being organized by friends and coworkers and is scheduled to take place at Daphne Park on Tuesday evening. All community members are welcome to attend and are encouraged to wear purple—Lauren’s favorite color—in her honor.
Funeral arrangements are being handled by Memory Chapel Funeral Home in Laurel. A public visitation will be held on Thursday, July 24, followed by a service celebrating Lauren’s life on Friday morning. Her family has requested that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Laurel Animal Rescue Shelter or a local scholarship fund that will be established in Lauren’s name to support young women entering the hospitality and service industries.
As Laurel mourns the loss of one of its brightest souls, the memory of Lauren Shows will undoubtedly live on in the lives she touched, the friendships she nurtured, and the compassion she carried into every room. Her legacy is one of love, resilience, and kindness—a reminder of just how much one life can mean to so many.