A drive home from college turned tragic last Friday when a 19-year-old LSU freshman from Red Oak was killed after her car hit a commercial truck on Louisiana Highway 190 near Jennings Road in Opelousas, authorities said. The student, identified as Courtney Hodge, a Texas native who had just wrapped up her first year studying political science at LSU, was pronounced dead at the scene. She was reportedly headed back to Dallas when the crash happened shortly after 3 p.m.
Crash details from state troopers
According to a press release from Louisiana State Police, Hodge was traveling west on LA-190 in a 2025 Kia K4 behind a 2005 Kenworth commercial motor vehicle that began slowing as it approached a crossover. Troopers said Hodge was unrestrained and rear-ended the commercial truck, suffering fatal injuries. She was pronounced dead at the scene. The agency said the crash remains under investigation.
Family and school mourn
As reported by WBRZ, Hodge had just finished her freshman year at LSU, where she was enrolled in political science. Back home, the Red Oak Cheer Booster Club shared a condolence message that was picked up by local outlets and the school district, saying, "Courtney will always be a part of the Red Oak Cheer family." Friends and former teammates described her as spirited and outgoing as prayers and tributes continued to pour in for her family.
Safety reminder as investigators continue work
State troopers used the crash as a sobering reminder that proper seat-belt use can sharply reduce the risk of serious injury or death, a point underscored in the agency's release. Troop I investigators are still working the case and have asked anyone with information to contact Louisiana State Police. Media coverage has noted the vehicle types involved and the sequence of events as the investigation continues.
What to know next
The crash was first reported to troopers shortly after 3 p.m. last Friday, and authorities say additional details will be released as the investigation allows. Local outlets, including CBS Texas, have been tracking the story and the Red Oak community response. Anyone with information is asked to contact Troop I.
