Southeastern Louisiana University is mourning three students killed early Monday morning when the car they were traveling in struck a concrete support column near Ponchatoula. The Tangipahoa Parish Coroner’s Office identified the victims as Carmelo Riley, Brian Smith II, and Tyrell Yates.
What Happened
According to Louisiana State Police, the three were traveling in a 2017 Honda Accord at a high rate of speed around 3:30 a.m. Monday, September 28, on the Interstate 55 northbound on-ramp from U.S. Highway 51 near Ponchatoula. The vehicle left the roadway and struck a concrete support column on the left side of the road. All three were killed.
Toxicology results are pending, and the crash remains under investigation.
Who They Were
Yates, a former Northshore High School student, was homecoming king there in 2023 and a talented athlete who went on to play basketball at Southeastern. Smith was also a former Northshore High School student. Riley formerly attended Belle Chasse High School. All three were enrolled as students at Southeastern Louisiana University at the time of their deaths.
The University’s Response
Southeastern President William G. Wainwright shared the news with the campus community in a statement:
“Dear Southeastern Family, it is with profound sadness that I share the heartbreaking news of the passing of three of our students this morning in a vehicle accident. Each student was a beloved and valued member of the Southeastern Family, and their loss is deeply felt across our campus community.
“There are simply no words that can adequately express the sorrow we feel for their families, friends, classmates, faculty and all those whose lives they touched. On behalf of our entire university community, I extend our deepest condolences to their families during this incredibly difficult time. I ask that we come together as a Southeastern Family and keep them, and all those who loved these students, in our thoughts and prayers.
“In moments like this, we are reminded just how much we depend upon and care for one another. I know this news will be especially difficult for many members of our community. Please take care of yourselves and one another, and do not hesitate to seek support if needed.”
Support Resources for the Southeastern Community
The university’s statement directed students and community members toward available support services. Southeastern’s Counseling Center can be reached at (985) 549-3894 or in person at room 303A in the Student Union Annex. For those not on campus, the ViaLink Crisis Hotline is available at (833) 603-0008.
“Please join me in keeping these students, their families and their loved ones close in our hearts in the difficult days ahead,” Wainwright’s statement concluded.
