A Love Cut Short: Louisiana Couple Dies in Separate Crashes Hours Apart, Leaving Behind 4-Year-Old Son
In a heartbreaking sequence of events, a young Louisiana couple's dreams were tragically shattered. Alexus Lee, 25, and her fiancé John “JR” Collins, 35, died in separate car accidents just hours apart on the same early morning, leaving their 4-year-old son, Gabriel, without his parents.
Tragic Sequence of Events
On the early morning of May 16, tragedy struck. Around 2 a.m., Alexus was driving her 2013 Toyota Highlander northbound on LA 67 near Lemon Road in East Baton Rouge Parish when she lost control of the vehicle. The SUV veered off the road, struck a culvert, and overturned. Alexus, who was not wearing a seatbelt, sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. (Source)
Upon receiving the devastating news, JR immediately set out to reach the crash site. Tragically, at approximately 3:45 a.m., while driving his 2016 Chevrolet Camaro southbound on LA 67 near Idlewild Road in East Feliciana Parish, JR lost control of his vehicle. The car exited the roadway, struck a tree, and JR, who was also not wearing a seatbelt, was ejected and pronounced dead at the scene. (Source)
A Community in Mourning
The sudden loss of both Alexus and JR has left their families and the broader community in profound grief. Sandra Collins, JR's mother, expressed the deep sorrow felt by both families:
“He loved Alexus, as well as everybody else who knew her. To know her was to love her.”
Dominique Lee, Alexus's sister, shared her heartbreak:
“Losing Lexus just different. It was a different feeling, and it's like I know a part of me gone.”
Despite the overwhelming tragedy, both families are united in their commitment to Gabriel's well-being. Sandra Collins emphasized their dedication:
“Even though they left a child behind, we have a great support system. The two families will blend, and we will do whatever it takes to give him a good life.”
Reflecting on Broader Implications
This tragic incident underscores the critical importance of road safety measures, including the consistent use of seatbelts. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), seatbelt use is one of the most effective ways to save lives and reduce injuries in crashes. In 2021 alone, seatbelts saved an estimated 14,955 lives in the U.S.
Moreover, the loss of Alexus and JR highlights the need for community support systems for children who experience such profound losses. Gabriel’s situation is a poignant reminder of the importance of accessible mental health resources and support networks for grieving families.
Honoring Their Memory
A joint celebration of life for Alexus and JR was held on May 21 at East Feliciana STEAM Academy, where Alexus had been a dedicated educator. The ceremony served as a testament to their love, commitment, and the indelible impact they had on their community.
What’s at Stake for Us?
What’s happening to Brandon Johnson isn’t just a Chicago issue — it’s a signal to every Black mayor, superintendent, or community leader: “Don’t get too Black.”
But here’s the thing: We’re not going backward.
This moment calls for us to double down on local power. We must support our Black leaders especially when they’re unapologetically centering our communities. Because if we don’t defend them, the forces trying to erase us will only get bolder.
Call to Action:
In the wake of this tragedy, community members are encouraged to support organizations that provide assistance to children who have lost parents, such as local grief counseling centers and child welfare services. Additionally, promoting road safety education and advocating for the consistent use of seatbelts can help prevent future tragedies.
Let us honor the memories of Alexus and JR by coming together to support their son, Gabriel, and by fostering a community committed to safety, compassion, and resilience.