OPELOUSAS, La. — In a quiet turn of events that shook her hometown, 52-year-old Ms. Sonya McClendon of Opelousas was killed Wednesday morning in a two-vehicle, head-on collision in St. Landry Parish. Troopers with Louisiana State Police Troop I say they were called to the scene just after 7 a.m. on LA Highway 754 near Jessie Richard Road.
Investigators report that McClendon was driving westbound in a 2015 Nissan Versa when, for reasons still under review, she crossed the center line and collided with a 2023 Ford F-150 traveling east. The impact left her with fatal injuries and she was pronounced dead at the scene. The Ford’s driver, who was restrained and wearing a seat belt, sustained moderate injuries and was transported to a local hospital.
Officials indicate that McClendon was not wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash, and toxicology samples were collected from both drivers as the investigation continues.
Friends and loved ones say Sonya’s presence lit up rooms: her laughter, her caring gestures, her generous spirit made her a fixture in the community—and now her sudden absence has left a deep, aching void among those who knew her. At 52, she had built relationships that went beyond mere acquaintance; she was known for making the little things matter.
As Opelousas tries to come to terms with her loss, the pain is sharp but so is the memory of what she brought to life around her—a warmth that will continue in conversations and memories. One cannot help but reflect on how fragile tomorrow can be, how quickly normal becomes unimaginable.
The funeral home reports that services will be held on Saturday, November 8 at the Evangeline Memorial Gardens Chapel in Carencro, under the care of Melancon Funeral Homes. Visitation details are available through the family’s obituary listing.
While nothing can undo the tragedy, McClendon’s passing serves as a sober reminder of the importance of safety—especially the simple act of buckling up. Troop I underscored that wearing a seat belt significantly reduces the risk of severe injury or death in a crash.
Today, the community mourns one of its own—but also remembers who she was and what she represented: kindness, connection, joy. Sonya’s light may have dimmed earlier than expected, but for those who knew her, it continues to guide. Rest peacefully, Sonya.