Arizona 'Beautiful Soul' Dies in School Bus Crash Weeks after Her 17th Birthday

In an unfortunate turn of events, a family's whole world came crashing down when they received a piece of devastating news. It turned out that an unspeakable tragedy changed their lives most unexpectedly, leaving them in pieces.

Losing a loved one is a heart-shattering experience. No matter how fast we run, there are some things in life we cannot escape, and pain is one of them. They say time heals all wounds; however, some scars are so deep that they might continue to hurt for a long time.

Coping with grief and loss varies from one person to another. For parents, however, dealing with the loss of a child can lead to emotional baggage and a myriad of complex feelings, which might be challenging to handle. The story we're sharing today centers around a similar theme.

A LIVELY YOUNGSTER

Kiarra Alma Gordon was a lively teenager who lived with her family in Wide Ruins, Arizona. She was the oldest of four siblings and had three younger brothers. Gordon was a high-spirited youngster who had big aims and ambitions in life.

Navigating life and steering through the hurt can be challenging, and most parents might have difficulty coping with their complex emotions.

She was a student at the Holbrook Indian School and celebrated her seventeenth birthday with her family and friends on July 26, 2022. The teenager loved playing sports, particularly basketball, and also enjoyed going on field trips.

A SAD DAY

On the morning of August 28, Gordon was among the students headed on a school trip to Window Rock, the capital of the Navajo Nation. The bus was said to be occupied by nineteen people, including the teachers.

There was no sign of trouble as the Holbrook bus drove toward its destination until tragedy struck. According to the Arizona Department of Public Safety, the school bus met with an unfortunate accident around 9:30 a.m. on Interstate-40 near milepost 325, not too far away from Sanders.

The school bus slowed down in traffic near another crash and was struck from behind by a semi-truck, pushing it into a van.

GONE TOO SOON

The tragic crash left six people in the Holbrook school vehicle with severe injuries. An official statement from the Holbrook Indian School's vice principal, Ulysses Campos, said:

"We ask that you would be patient and respectful as we work through this as a school community, and we solicit your prayers on behalf of everyone impacted by this tragedy."

Sadly, one of the injured occupants succumbed to her wounds. The late teenager was none other than Gordon, and her aunt, Falonna Ashley, confirmed the heart-wrenching news on Facebook.

BRIGHT AND BEAUTIFUL

Ashley described her niece as an intelligent, talented, sweet, and beautiful young woman who was always fun to have around. She also added:

"[Kiarra] had a beautiful soul. She was focused on education and was thinking about what to do after high school."

Per the Holbrook officials, the injured pupils were treated at a Flagstaff hospital. Three students remained hospitalized while the others were examined and discharged. One of the wounded students was identified as Freedom Chee, 15, who was said to have suffered leg injuries.

AT A LOSS FOR WORDS

Freedom's sister, Shyla Chee, shared that she freaked out when she first received the call about the crash.

The Chee siblings had lost their mother a few months back and were still reeling from the loss. Shyla also expressed:

"We are really sorry for the girl that passed and that was my sister's friend. We don't know what to say to one another right now."

COMMENTS FROM USERS

Several netizens left messages of support and encouragement for the bereaved family:

"My heart is breaking for you. I'm just so so sorry for your loss. Sending my condolences to you and your family."

— (@samantha.regain) August 29, 2022

"Beyond shocked to hear the sad news! I can't imagine the pain and heartache you and your family are feeling. But please know you are in our prayers."

— (@ericca.white) August 29, 2022

"Sending you all of our love and prayers."

— (@bekkyr) August 30, 2022

NAVIGATING GRIEF AND LOSS

Losing a child brings heartbreaking trauma and soul-crushing pain, coupled with indescribable emotions, such as despair, sadness, anger, longing, and depression. Navigating life and steering through the hurt can be challenging, and most parents might have difficulty coping with their complex emotions.

It's important to note that healing from the loss of a child is a bumpy and winding road. Some days might be harder than the rest. Grieving families can indulge in activities that help them feel happy or confide in their loved ones. If the situation feels out of control, seeking professional help is always a good idea.

Coping with grief and loss is easier said than done, and healing isn't always a straightforward process. Our deepest condolences and heartfelt prayers go out to Gordon's family in this difficult time.