Giselle Smith Obituary, New Orleans – A crash on Wednesday night in New Orleans has claimed the lives of two teenagers, including 17-year-old Giselle Smith. The fatal incident unfolded 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 the car carrying Giselle, her friend, and her sister. Giselle, a senior at West Jefferson High School in Harvey, was tragically pronounced dead at the scene.
Giselle Smith was more than just a student; she was a bright, cheerful young woman who made a lasting impact on those around her. A member of her school’s basketball team and band, Giselle was known for her vibrant personality and kindness. Her friends and family recall her love of dancing and her dream of becoming a Realtor. She was the youngest of 11 siblings and brought joy to her family and community. “She had so much to look forward to in life, and it was taken away from her,” said her grieving sister, Jaquanda Kiper.
The tragedy comes just five months after the Smith family suffered the loss of their mother, Zena Kiper, to cancer. Now, the family is grappling with yet another profound loss, while also praying for the recovery of Giselle’s 21-year-old sister, who remains hospitalized with a serious head injury.
The crash occurred during a brief police pursuit initiated by deputies from the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office. Authorities had been following a red SUV that fled from Lakeside Shopping Center in Metairie, where three women were suspected of shoplifting. The pursuit was called off only a minute later, near the Canal Boulevard exit on Interstate 610. Despite this, moments later, the fleeing SUV lost control and crashed into the vehicle carrying Giselle and her companions.
In the chaotic aftermath, three women fled from the crashed SUV. Authorities later detained one suspect, a 37-year-old woman wanted for shoplifting, while the alleged driver of the SUV, 31-year-old Joneaka Smooth, is now wanted on multiple charges, including two counts of manslaughter, negligent injuring, and hit-and-run.
The sudden loss of Giselle and her friend has sent shockwaves through their community. At just 17 years old, Giselle’s life was cut tragically short, robbing her of a future filled with potential and aspirations. Those who knew her described her as a beacon of positivity, always bringing energy and laughter to any room she entered. Her teachers, classmates, and teammates at West Jefferson High School are heartbroken over her death, with many remembering her for her dedication and enthusiasm in everything she did, from sports to her academic goals.
The Smith family’s heartbreak is compounded by the fact that they are also holding vigil for Giselle’s older sister, who remains in critical condition. The family is rallying around her, hoping for her recovery, even as they mourn the loss of their youngest sibling. The tragedy has united the local community in their support for the Smith family, with friends, neighbors, and school staff offering their condolences and assistance during this incredibly difficult time.
As the investigation continues, authorities are urging anyone with information about the crash or the whereabouts of the remaining suspects to contact the New Orleans Police Department. The community is watching closely, hoping for justice for Giselle and her friend, whose lives were taken far too soon.
The loss of two vibrant young lives has left a deep void in the hearts of many. As the Smith family grieves, the memory of Giselle’s infectious smile and her unshakable optimism will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. In a world that feels darker without her, Giselle’s legacy will remain—a reminder of the importance of kindness, ambition, and the fleeting nature of life.
Further updates will be provided as investigations unfold, but for now, the community stands in solidarity with the Smith family, mourning the loss of a young woman whose life held so much promise.