A tragic crash on Wednesday night resulted in the deaths of two teenagers, including 17-year-old Giselle Smith. The incident occurred around 7:39 p.m. at the intersection of St. Bernard Avenue and Interstate 610 when a vehicle fleeing from Jefferson Parish deputies collided with their car. Giselle, a senior at West Jefferson High School in Harvey, was pronounced dead at the scene. Known for her cheerful personality, she was a member of the school's basketball team and band. Her family described her as caring, fun-loving, and full of promise. Another 17-year-old girl, identified as a close friend and fellow senior, succumbed to her injuries the following day. Giselle's 21-year-old sister, also in the vehicle, remains hospitalized with a head injury.
The crash occurred during a brief police pursuit initiated by the Jefferson Parish Sheriff's Office. Deputies began following a red SUV after it fled Lakeside Shopping Center in Metairie, where three women were suspected of shoplifting. The pursuit was called off just a minute later near the Canal Boulevard exit on Interstate 610. However, moments later, the SUV lost control and crashed into the vehicle carrying Giselle and her companions. Three women fled from the crashed SUV, but deputies detained one, identified as a 37-year-old suspect wanted for shoplifting. The alleged driver, 31-year-old Joneaka Smooth, is now wanted on charges including two counts of manslaughter, negligent injuring, and hit-and-run.
The tragedy has devastated the Smith family, who were already grieving the loss of their mother, Zena Kiper, to cancer just five months ago. Giselle, the youngest of 11 siblings, was remembered for her infectious smile, love of dancing, and aspirations to become a Realtor. "She wasn't given a chance," her sister, Jaquanda Kiper, said. "She had so much to look forward to in life, and it was taken away from her."
The family is now mourning Giselle while holding vigil for her sister's recovery. Authorities are urging anyone with information about the crash or suspects to contact the New Orleans Police Department as investigations continue. Further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses, and the community remains united in support of the Smith family during this incredibly difficult time.
