Two Tragic Accidents, One Heartbreaking Loss
*A 4-year-old Louisiana boy is now orphaned after both of his parents died in separate car crashes just hours apart on the morning of May 16, 2025. The back-to-back tragedies claimed the lives of 25-year-old Alexus Lee of Baton Rouge and 35-year-old John “JR” Collins of Clinton, a recently engaged couple who were preparing to marry next year.
According to the Louisiana State Police, Lee was the first to perish in a single-car crash just after 2 a.m. She had been driving a 2013 Toyota Highlander when the vehicle veered off the road, struck a culvert, and overturned. Authorities said she was not wearing a seatbelt and died at the scene from fatal injuries.
Not long after, Collins—rushing to the crash site after being notified—was involved in a second fatal accident at around 3:45 a.m. He was driving a 2026 Chevrolet Camaro at a high rate of speed when he failed to negotiate a curve, left the roadway, and struck a tree.
Like Lee, Collins was not wearing a seatbelt and was ejected from the vehicle. He also died at the scene, Fox10 is reporting.
Engaged and Building a Life Together
Lee and Collins had been engaged since 2024 and were planning their wedding for 2026. They had recently purchased a new home, building a future for themselves and their 4-year-old son, Gabriel. That future was cut tragically short in a matter of hours.
“He’s just having a little problem comprehending that we can’t talk to them. We can’t see them,” said Sandra Collins, JR’s mother, in an emotional interview with FOX 10. “But he understands that they are asleep and are with God.”
Family members from both sides have pledged to come together and raise Gabriel, ensuring that the little boy still grows up surrounded by love and support. “The two families will blend, and we will do whatever it takes to give him a good life,” Sandra added.
Police Stress Importance of Seatbelt Safety
In their statement, Louisiana State Police emphasized the critical importance of wearing seatbelts, noting that neither Lee nor Collins were restrained at the time of their crashes. “Properly using seatbelts is one of the most effective ways to save lives,” the agency said. They also reminded drivers to avoid fatigue, distractions, and impairment behind the wheel.
While the cause of Lee’s crash is still under investigation, police said impairment is not suspected in Collins’ accident. Toxicology results for both victims are pending.
A Community Mourns and Rallies
The tragic story has drawn heartfelt condolences from across the Baton Rouge and Clinton communities. Friends and neighbors have begun organizing support efforts for Gabriel, including fundraising and emotional support for the grieving families.
Social media has been flooded with tributes for the young couple, with many remembering their love story and devotion to their son. “They were always smiling when I saw them,” one family friend posted. “You could see how much they loved their little boy.”
As both families navigate this unimaginable loss, their focus remains on giving Gabriel a future his parents would have wanted. Plans for memorial services are expected to be announced in the coming days.
In the midst of their grief, the families hope this heartbreaking story reminds others to cherish life, drive responsibly, and never underestimate the lifesaving power of a seatbelt.
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