Former All Black Jerry Collins and his wife Alana Madill have died in a tragic car accident in France.
The crash occurred on a stretch of highway in the French region of Herault. According to local news, the devastating accident occurred at 4.30am local time, when the car Collins was driving collided with a bus.
The husband and wife were killed instantly, while their three-month-old daughter, Ayla, was rushed to hospital in critical condition.
Collins, who played 48 tests for the All Blacks, including three tests as captain, was playing for French club Narbonne at the time of his accident.
The world has responded in loving tributes for Collins and his family. Our deepest sympathies go out to his family and friends.
We are shocked and saddened by reports about the accident involving Jerry.
— All Blacks (@AllBlacks) June 5, 2015
My heart and sadness goes out to jerry’s wife and her family. And also to the collins family.. alofa atu!!
— Piri Weepu (@piriweepu) June 5, 2015
Love you uso, May God look after your little one #thehitman
— Sonny Bill Williams (@SonnyBWilliams) June 5, 2015
We are shocked and saddened to hear of Jerry and his wife’s passing tonight. Our thoughts & prayers are with the family and baby Ayla…
— Hurricanes Rugby (@Hurricanesrugby) June 5, 2015