In Loving Memory of Brian Smith II, Tyrell Yates, and Carmelo Riley

Three families are now facing a heartbreaking loss after Brian Smith II, Tyrell Yates, and Carmelo Riley died in a crash Monday morning in Tangipahoa Parish, Louisiana.

Brian Smith II was a 2024 graduate of Northshore High School, while Tyrell Yates graduated from Northshore in 2023. Carmelo Riley was a recent graduate of Belle Chasse High School. Each had reached a new stage of life, carrying hopes and plans for what was still ahead.

Their lives were lost around 3:30 a.m. Monday on the northbound Interstate 55 ramp from U.S. Highway 51 near Ponchatoula. Louisiana State Police said the 2017 Honda Accord carrying the group was traveling at a high rate of speed when it struck a concrete support column.

Two of the young men died at the crash scene. The third was taken to a hospital with life-threatening injuries and later passed away.

Southeastern Louisiana University President William S. Wainwright shared his sorrow over the deaths, describing the students as beloved and valued members of the Southeastern family. Their passing has brought grief to a university community that knew them as students, friends, and fellow members of campus life.

For their families and friends, the pain of losing three young men with so much life ahead will not disappear quickly. Their photographs, shared memories, friendships, and the moments they gave to others will become treasured reminders of who they were.

Today, Brian, Tyrell, and Carmelo are remembered for the lives they lived and the people they touched. Their names will continue to be spoken with love by those who knew them, while their families carry their memories into the days ahead.