Kenna Wilson, an 18-year-old recent high school graduate and standout athlete, died in a car crash on June 7, 2024 on Interstate 95 in Port St. Lucie, Florida. At approximately 1:45 a.m., a 2015 Lexus sedan driven by a 23-year-old man from Boca Raton collided with the rear of Wilson’s 2008 Honda Accord. Wilson, a passenger, was accompanied by a 17-year-old male driver.
Wilson had just left Cleveland Clinic Tradition Hospital after trying to visit a friend in the emergency room. The collision caused both vehicles to leave the road and crash into trees. Emergency responders took the injured to nearby hospitals, but Wilson was declared dead at HCA Florida Lawnwood Hospital at 3:27 a.m.
Kenna Wilson was a cherished individual in her community and excelled as an athlete at Martin County High School. She contributed to her relay team, setting a new school record in their final meet of the season.
Her coach, Chris Thompson, remembered her as a “very fiery competitor,” emphasizing her determination and team spirit. “The team worked together every day all season, doing workouts together, working on their relay handoff, just trying to put together that perfect race,” Thompson shared.
Her alma mater expressed deep condolences in a heartfelt Facebook post, asking the community to “hold tight to the loving memories” they have of her. The post described Wilson as a cherished member of the school community who will be dearly missed.
Following her untimely passing, a GoFundMe campaign was initiated to cover Wilson’s medical and funeral expenses, as well as to support her family during this challenging period. The campaign emphasized her aspirations to attend Indian River State College in the fall and celebrated her lively personality and the joy she brought to those around her. The fundraiser has garnered over $25,000.
Wilson’s death has deeply affected her friends, family, and community. Her stepmother, Lorena Wilson, spoke about Kenna’s compassionate nature and determination, which endeared her to many on and off the track. A tribute described her as someone who “lit up every room she entered,” capturing her spirited and kind-hearted demeanor.
