The family of a 2-year-old boy, who gained internet fame as “Okay Baby” on TikTok, is grieving his tragic death in a car crash, and pushing back against Louisiana State Police’s claim that he was improperly restrained in his car seat.
Preston Ordone was killed Thursday when a 2011 Ford F-150, carrying his parents, veered off Interstate 12 and struck a tree around 11:50 a.m., authorities said. State Police reported that the toddler was “improperly restrained,” while the two front-seat passengers—his parents—were wearing seatbelts.
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But Preston’s grandfather, Glen Norris, strongly disputed that account, telling reporters the boy was properly secured. Speaking from Lakeview Hospital, where Preston’s parents, Jaelan and Katelynn Ordone, are recovering from severe injuries, Norris said a witness who helped pull Preston from the wreckage confirmed the car seat was correctly used, according to the New Orleans Advocate.
“The State Police’s statement was hurtful and painful,” Norris said Friday. “We’re already devastated—we don’t need misinformation adding to our grief.” The family’s social media presence, where Preston was known for his cheerful “Okay, baby!” catchphrase, amplified the tragedy. One of his videos had garnered 43 million views on TikTok, and the family has hundreds of thousands of followers across platforms.
State Police Trooper Marc Gremillion defended the initial report, saying it was based on available evidence but acknowledged the investigation is ongoing. In a pinned Facebook comment, the agency said its goal was “never to add to the pain” but to promote safety awareness.
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Norris said the couple was returning from a doctor’s visit when the crash occurred. Their other child, Paisley, was at school at the time. Katelynn suffered multiple broken bones, and Jaelan shattered his leg, leaving the family facing a grueling recovery. Loved ones created a GoFundMe account for Preston’s family, who have hundreds of thousands of followers on social media.
As condolences poured in from heartbroken fans, Norris emphasized that the focus should be on Preston’s life, not disputed details. “It’s a long road ahead for us,” he said. “Right now, we just want the truth—and to honor our boy.” Authorities have not yet determined the cause of the crash.
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