A devastating crash in New Orleans that killed two teenage girls and seriously injured another has taken a major legal turn after the woman accused of causing the collision pleaded guilty to multiple charges. The tragic incident happened during a high-speed police chase that began after a reported shoplifting investigation and ended with a violent crash that destroyed a vehicle carrying three young women.
Now, authorities say the driver responsible could face decades behind bars.
Woman Pleads Guilty In Deadly New Orleans Crash
According to investigators, Joneaka Smooth pleaded guilty on May 8, 2026, to two counts of manslaughter, one count of attempted manslaughter, and one count of obstruction of justice.
The charges are connected to a deadly crash that happened on Dec. 11, 2024, in New Orleans.
Authorities said the crash occurred after Smooth allegedly fled from deputies investigating a reported shoplifting incident at Lakeside Shopping Center in Jefferson Parish.
Police Say Crash Happened During High-Speed Chase
Investigators said deputies responded to reports of shoplifting involving a group of women inside the shopping center.
According to authorities, Smooth fled the scene in a red Mercedes before deputies attempted to stop the vehicle.
Police said the pursuit continued along Interstate 10 from Jefferson Parish into Orleans Parish at high speed.
The chase eventually reached Saint Bernard Avenue, where investigators say Smooth lost control while attempting to cross traffic lanes.
Vehicle Became Airborne Before Deadly Impact
According to investigators, Smooth allegedly crossed southbound lanes without stopping and drove onto the median area before the vehicle became airborne.
Authorities said the Mercedes then crashed violently into another vehicle travelling northbound.
The impact was so severe that investigators said the roof of the victims’ car was ripped off from the windshield to the rear window.
Emergency responders described catastrophic injuries at the scene.
Two Teen Girls Killed In Crash
Police confirmed that 17-year-olds Gisselle Smith and Semaj Morris died as a result of the crash.
Both teenagers were seniors at West Jefferson High School at the time of the tragedy.
A third victim, identified as Gisselle Smith’s older sister Paris, survived the collision but suffered serious injuries.
The deaths of the two teenagers deeply affected the local community, classmates, and grieving family members.
Authorities Say Occupants Fled Scene
Investigators also stated that everyone inside Smooth’s vehicle reportedly fled the scene after the crash occurred.
Authorities later continued the investigation, eventually leading to the criminal charges and guilty plea.
Here is a quick overview of the case:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Defendant | Joneaka Smooth |
| Location | New Orleans, Louisiana |
| Incident Date | December 11, 2024 |
| Victims | Gisselle Smith and Semaj Morris |
| Victims’ Ages | 17 years old |
| Charges | Manslaughter, attempted manslaughter, obstruction |
| Crash Cause | High-speed police chase |
| Sentencing Date | June 9, 2026 |
Prosecutors Seeking Harsher Punishment
According to prosecutors with the Orleans Parish District Attorney’s Office, they plan to pursue a habitual offender enhancement against Smooth.
If approved, the enhancement could significantly increase the possible prison sentence.
Authorities said Smooth could face anywhere from 40 years to life in prison depending on the court’s final ruling during sentencing.
Community Continues Mourning Teen Victims
The crash left a deep emotional impact on the families of the victims and the local school community.
Friends and loved ones remembered Gisselle Smith and Semaj Morris as young women with bright futures ahead of them before the tragedy suddenly ended their lives.
The case also reignited discussions about dangerous police pursuits, reckless driving, and the devastating consequences that can follow high-speed chases through crowded city streets.
