The town of Rosedale, Louisiana, is grieving deeply after the tragic and sudden death of Collin Smith, who was killed in a devastating crash in Iberville Parish on Thursday, April 16. He was only 22 years old, and his passing has left an unbearable heartbreak across his family, friends, and the entire community.
According to the Louisiana State Police, the fatal collision occurred at approximately 11:15 a.m. on Highway 77, just north of Horseshoe Bend Road, near Grosse Tete. Investigators said Collin was driving a Buick Enclave southbound when, for reasons still under investigation, the vehicle crossed into the northbound lane and collided head-on with a Kenworth tractor-trailer log truck.
The crash was described as extremely violent. Following the impact, both vehicles left the roadway and traveled into the nearby tree line. Troopers reported that both the Buick Enclave and the log truck became engulfed in flames, creating a terrifying and tragic scene along the highway.
Collin Smith was pronounced dead at the scene, his life taken in an instant. Emergency responders arrived quickly, but the damage and fire were too severe. The driver of the log truck survived and was transported to the hospital with moderate injuries, according to officials.
Due to the extensive fire damage, authorities said they were unable to determine whether either driver was wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash. State Police also confirmed that impairment has not been ruled out, and they are collecting routine toxicology samples as part of the ongoing investigation.
This tragedy has shaken Rosedale to its core. Collin’s death is more than an accident report—it is the heartbreaking loss of a young man with a future ahead of him. At just 22, he should have had decades left to live, love, and grow. Instead, his life ended on a Louisiana roadway, leaving behind grief that will not fade easily.
As the investigation continues, the community is holding Collin’s loved ones in prayer, mourning a life gone far too soon. May Collin Smith rest in peace, and may his memory live on forever.
