In a heartbreaking tragedy that shook Louisiana, an engaged couple died hours apart in separate car crashes early Friday, May 16—leaving behind their 4-year-old son, Gabriel.
Just a year earlier, Alexus Lee, 25, celebrated her birthday and engagement to John “JR” Collins, 35, on Facebook, sharing photos of her ring and excitement about their future. The couple had recently bought a home and were planning a February 2026 wedding.
Around 2 a.m. on May 16, Lee, a teacher and Southern University graduate, crashed her SUV on LA-67 in East Baton Rouge Parish. She was not wearing a seatbelt and died at the scene.
Less than two hours later, a devastated Collins was speeding to reach her when his Camaro veered off the road and hit a tree. He was also not wearing a seatbelt and died instantly.
Friends and family mourned the couple, calling them “sweet souls” with “unmatched energy.” Tributes poured in online, remembering their love and light.
Now, their son faces life without his parents. Both families are coming together to raise Gabriel with love and support.
“In just hours, we lost two beautiful lives full of love and dreams,” said Collins’ mother, Sandra. “But we’ll make sure Gabriel knows how much they loved him.”