Courtney Hodge was a 19-year-old student full of plans, but everything changed on a Friday afternoon in Opelousas, Louisiana. She had just finished her first year at Louisiana State University and was heading home when the crash happened.
The incident took place shortly after 3 p.m. on Louisiana Highway 190. Courtney was driving a 2025 Kia K4 westbound behind a semi-truck when traffic slowed near a crossover point.
Investigators say the truck reduced speed, and Courtney’s vehicle collided with the rear of it. The impact was severe and caused critical injuries at the scene.
Emergency responders arrived quickly, but Courtney Hodge was pronounced dead where the crash occurred. Officials also noted she was not properly restrained at the time of the impact.
News of her death spread fast through Red Oak and LSU circles. Friends and classmates described her as bright, focused, and full of energy. She had just completed her freshman year and was excited about what was ahead.
Her mother, Sherqueena Myles Jackson, shared the heartbreaking news as family and community members gathered in grief. The pain was made heavier because the family had been celebrating her academic progress only days before.
Red Oak ISD also expressed condolences, pointing out that Courtney’s mother is set to become principal at Schupmann Elementary School. The tragedy hit both the family and school community deeply.
As tributes continue online and in her hometown, Courtney Hodge is being remembered for her kindness, ambition, and the future that was taken far too soon.
