In a heartbreaking turn of events, a young couple from Baton Rouge, Louisiana, who were set to marry next year, unfortu lost their lives in separate car accidents just minutes apart. The devastating incident has left their families and community in disbelief, mourning the loss of two lives intertwined by love and fate. Alexus Lee, 25, and John “JR” Collins, 35, had been planning their wedding for February 2026. The couple had recently purchased a home and were building a future together with their four-year-old son, Gabriel. However, on May 16, tragedy struck when both lost their lives in separate crashes on LA 67. Shortly after 2:00 a.m., Alexus was driving her Toyota Highlander northbound when she lost control of the vehicle, veering off the road and overturning. She was not wearing a seatbelt and suffered fatal injuries at the scene. Upon hearing the devastating news, JR rushed to the scene. However, in his haste, he too lost control of his vehicle. His Chevrolet Camaro veered off the road, struck a tree, and he was ejected from the car. Like

Alexus, he was not wearing a seatbelt and succumbed to his injuries at the scene. The couple’s sudden passing has left their families grappling with unimaginable grief. Their son, Gabriel, is now left without his parents, though both families have vowed to come together to ensure he is surrounded by love and support. Sandra Collins, JR’s mother, shared that Gabriel understands his parents are gone but is struggling to comprehend that he can no longer see or speak to them. “He understands that they are asleep and are with God,” she said. A joint celebration of life was held on May 21 in Clinton, Louisiana, where loved ones gathered to remember the couple’s love and devotion to each other and their son. The unfortunate accident serves as a somber reminder of the importance of road safety. Louisiana State authorities have urged motorists to always wear seatbelts and drive cautiously to prevent further tragedies. Though their love story was cut short, Alexus and JR’s legacy will live on through their son and the cherished memories held by those who knew them.