Former All Blacks flanker Jerry Collins dies tragically in early morning car crash

All Blacks legend Jerry Collins and his wife died this morning when the car they were travelling in was involved in a collision with a bus.

34-year-old Collins and wife Alana Madill were killed instantly in the crash that took place in the Herault region of Southern France. Their three-month-old baby is understood to be in critical condition after being airlifted to a Montepellier hospital. French outlet Le Figaro broke the devastating news that the pair had passed away in the incident that occurred at 4.30am. Collins had played 48 test matches for the All Blacks between 2001 and 2007, as well captaining New Zealand on three occasions.

We are shocked and saddened by reports about the accident involving Jerry.

— All Blacks (@AllBlacks) June 5, 2015

Collins also enjoyed lengthy spells with the Hurricanes and Wellington before more recently signing with Racing Club Narbonne in the French second division.

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

https://youtu.be/AAEhpxzzR1w Before Hurricanes' Super Rugby clash with Highlanders, in Napier, today, both sides paid tribute to Collins with a minutes' silence.