Nationwide — Alexus Lee and John “JR” Collins, an engaged African American couple from East Baton Rouge, Louisiana, were building a life together when tragedy struck and claimed both of their lives in separate car crashes. The couple, who shared a 4-year-old son named Gabriel, had been planning to get married in February 2026.
According to WAFB 9, Alexus lost control of her SUV on Plank Road near Lemon Road in Zachary and overturned into a culvert. When JR received the devastating news, he rushed to the scene, but tragically lost control of his own vehicle and crashed just outside the town of Clinton. He was ejected from the car and died at the scene. Authorities confirmed neither was wearing a seatbelt.
Their young son, Gabriel, is now surrounded by a strong family network. “He understands what happened, and he’s just having a little trouble comprehending that we can’t talk to them,” Sandra Collins shared. “But he understands that they are asleep and with God.” Dominque Lee added, “I know they left here knowing their child is in good hands for sure.”
JR’s father, Arthur Collins, said through tears, “I love them and I’m gonna miss both of them, and I’m gonna find the strength to go ahead.” The grieving families, united in sorrow, described Alexus and JR’s bond as a beautiful whirlwind romance, filled with love and laughter. “To know her was to love her,” JR’s mother, Sandra Collins, said of Alexus. Dominque Lee, Alexus’s sister, added, “Losing Lexus was just different… it’s like a part of me is gone.”
Alexus had recently graduated from Southern University and was a teacher at East Feliciana STEAM Academy, while JR worked as a truck driver with a passion for sports cars. The couple had just purchased their first home together. Despite the unimaginable loss, the families are united in their commitment to raising Gabriel with love and stability. “We will do whatever it takes to give him a good life,” said Sandra Collins.
A joint celebration of life for Alexus and JR was held on Wednesday, May 21, at East Feliciana STEAM Academy, located at 9414 Plank Road in Clinton, Louisiana.