Carmelo Riley, Brian Smith II and Tyrell Yates Obituary, PONCHATOULA, La. — Three Southeastern Louisiana University students have died following a tragic single-vehicle crash on an Interstate 55 ramp near Ponchatoula, Louisiana, on Monday, September 28, 2026.
The Tangipahoa Parish Coroner’s Office identified the three students as Carmelo Riley, Brian Smith II and Tyrell Yates. Authorities said the students were traveling in a 2017 Honda Accord when the vehicle crashed into a concrete support column.
According to Louisiana State Police, the vehicle was traveling at a high rate of speed before the collision. The circumstances surrounding the crash remain under investigation as authorities continue working to establish the full details of what happened.
Riley, Smith and Yates were members of the Southeastern Louisiana University community. The university has expressed condolences to their families, friends, classmates, faculty members and others affected by the loss, while encouraging students who are struggling with the tragedy to seek available support.
Yates was a former Northshore High School student and homecoming king who was remembered in the information provided as a talented athlete and bright presence. Smith and Yates were also former Northshore High School students, while Riley previously attended Belle Chasse High School.
The deaths have prompted an outpouring of love and support from those connected to the three students and the communities they touched. Their time at Southeastern Louisiana University and their connections to their former schools remain part of the memories being shared following their deaths.
Louisiana State Police continue to investigate the fatal crash, and additional details may be released as the investigation progresses. At this time, officials have not provided further information about the circumstances surrounding the collision.
Carmelo Riley, Brian Smith II and Tyrell Yates will be remembered by their university and school communities for the lives they shared and the impact they made during their time with others. Their families, friends, classmates and all those mourning their loss are in the thoughts and condolences of the wider community.
