Engaged couple dies in separate crashes minutes apart leaving behind 4-year-old son
A couple set to be wed next year have passed away following two separate 'tragic' car accidents on the same Louisiana high road, leaving behind their four-year-old son.
On May 16, Louisiana State Police Troopers were called to investigate two different fatal crashes on LA 67.
Shortly after 2:00am, a single-vehicle crash took place on LA 67 at Lemon Road and 'claimed the life of 25-year-old teacher Alexus Lee' from Baton Rouge, Louisiana State Police's report reads.
Then, just before 3:45am, another single-vehicle crash occurred on LA 67 at Idlewild Road which saw 35-year-old truck driver John JR Collins from Clinton pass away.
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It's since been revealed Lee and Collins were engaged and reportedly planning their wedding for February 2026. The pair were also parents to four-year-old son Gabriel.
A tragic double crash 'still under investigation'
The report details the results of a preliminary investigation, which stated Lee 'was driving a 2013 Toyota Highlander' when she ended up losing control of the vehicle 'for reasons still under investigation'.
The car then exited the road and 'struck a culvert' before it 'overturned'.
"Lee was unrestrained, sustained fatal injuries, and was pronounced deceased on the scene," the report added.
Authorities reportedly called Collins to make him aware of his fiancée's crash, Collins immediately got in his own car to travel to the scene, WAFB reported.
Collins was 'traveling south on LA 67 at a high rate of speed in a 2016 Chevrolet Camaro', but when the car ended up 'failing to negotiate a right-hand curve', it came off the road and struck a tree.
"Collins was unrestrained and was ejected from the vehicle," the report continues. "He sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased on the scene."
Tributes to the couple
Tributes have been pouring in on social media for the couple. East Feliciana Public Schools - which Alexus attended, and also taught at - took to Facebook to pay tribute to the mom.
It wrote: "It is with great sadness we inform you that Ms. Alexus Lee, 2017 graduate of East Feliciana High School and teacher at East Feliciana STEAM Academy, passed away this morning. Please join us in wrapping Ms. Lee’s family in prayer and love during this difficult time."
"Rest Alexus Lee love you miss so much Me and sleeping Pretty smile. REST Jr wrapped arm around baby boy both parents smile down son," another Facebook user added.
A third wrote: "You will truly be missed can’t even believe im having to say rip to you Alexus Lee. you had the most lively smile & spirit I can’t even fathom it not existing anymore. Much love for you mg."
A fourth resolved: "Sending prayers up for both families during this tragic time. Especially for that child."
A celebration of the couple's lives was held yesterday (May 21) in Clinton.
Police warning for drivers to 'save lives'
Authorities have also issued a statement on the crashes, stating some advice and warning to try and prevent further crashes.
Louisiana State Police's report resolves: "Troopers wish to remind motorists to always make responsible choices when driving: avoid impairment, fatigue, and distractions. Follow traffic laws and ensure everyone in the vehicle is properly restrained", referencing the fact that both parents appeared not to have had their seatbelts on.
"While not all crashes are preventable, simple precautions like these can save lives."
Both incidents are reported as remaining under investigation.
If you have experienced a bereavement and would like to speak with someone in confidence, contact GrieveWell on (734) 975-0238, or email [email protected].
Poppy Bilderbeck