Missouri Grandmother Killed After Car Crashes Into Barnes & Noble Store in Ladue
LADUE, Missouri — A tragic accident at a Barnes & Noble bookstore in Ladue turned fatal Friday afternoon when a vehicle crashed through the front of the store, killing a 74-year-old grandmother and injuring her husband.
Victim Identified as Paula Abboud
Authorities confirmed that Paula Abboud, 74, of Ladue, died at the scene after the vehicle plowed through the entrance of the Barnes & Noble at Ladue Crossing Shopping Center. Her husband, Camille Abboud, who was also inside the store at the time, was taken to a local hospital with serious injuries.
Family members described Paula as a beloved mother of two and grandmother of two, remembered for her warmth, kindness, and deep love for her family.
Driver Cooperating With Police
Police said the crash occurred around Friday afternoon, prompting an immediate emergency response. The driver remained at the scene and is cooperating with investigators. Authorities have not yet released the driver’s identity or said what may have caused the crash.
Investigators are working to determine whether medical distress, mechanical failure, or human error played a role. As of Wednesday, no charges have been announced.
Community Pays Tribute
The Barnes & Noble location has since been boarded up, and a small memorial of flowers and candles now sits outside the store’s entrance where the vehicle struck.
Local residents have visited throughout the week to pay their respects. “She was just shopping for books — something she loved doing,” one neighbor said. “It’s heartbreaking.”
The Ladue Police Department and Missouri State Highway Patrol continue to investigate the cause of the crash.
For more community safety news and Missouri local updates, visit NapervilleLocal.com.
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