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A kayaker identified as Ava Moore, 18, was fatally struck by a jet ski in Texas over Memorial Day Weekend, according to the Grapevine Police Department
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A female suspected of being the jet ski operator allegedly fled the scene with an adult man, but the pair were then forced to abandon their car after hitting another vehicle
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Texas Game Wardens and the Grapevine Police Department ha photo of the suspect amid their investigation into the May 25 incident
A teenager has died in Texas after being struck by a jet ski whose driver fled the scene.
Ava Moore, 18, was killed when a watercraft with two female occupants struck her as she was kayaking on Grapevine Lake on the evening of Sunday, May 25, Texas Game Wardens said in a news release shared on Facebook.
A female passenger remained to speak with first responders, while the operator of the jet ski allegedly fled the scene in a car with an adult man. The pair then struck a vehicle as they were leaving the area, per the news release. The Grapevine Police Department is investigating the automotive incident.
The suspect and the man allegedly abandoned the car at the Cobblestone apartments at Ruth Wall and Turner Road, local outlet Panel reported. Meanwhile, Moore was pulled from the water by witnesses and died after being rushed to the hospital.
Jon G. Fuller/VWPics/Alamy Stock Photo
Grapevine Lake, Texas
Lisa Scrabeck, a witness who helped to provide aid, told CBS News Texas that Moore had been wearing a life jacket, which was removed before CPR began.
“She didn’t suffer in agony,” Scrabeck said of Moore, per CBS News Texas. “It’s very tragic, and I extend my deepest condolences to the family. I can’t imagine being the parents of this young girl. But one thing I can say is that she didn’t suffer from the moment I saw her.”
Moore had “just returned from Colorado Springs after finishing her 1st year at the Air Force Preparatory School,” according to a GoFundMe page. She had previously been an “outstanding student and athlete” at Timber Creek High School.
The basketball player helped the Lady Falcons to a 71-51 mark across four years, including a 24-10 record in 2022 during her sophomore year and a 17-14 mark during her senior season, Sports Illustrated reported.
Grapevine Police Department
The woman police suspect was driving the jet ski
Following her sudden death, Moore’s family is aiming to raise $20,000 toward her funeral costs, according to the GoFundMe. The fundraiser has so far raised over $11,500 as of the morning of May 27.
“We are grieving the loss of our daughter at this time. Our prayers are also with the young ladies involved along with their families,” Moore’s family said in a statement to WFAA.
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Texas Game Wardens are leading the water fatality investigation, while the Grapevine Police Department is investigating the related automotive hit-and-run incident, according to the news release.
They have released a photo of the woman accused of operating the jet ski, adding, “If anyone has information regarding either suspect, please contact [email protected].”
“Our thoughts are with Ava’s family and friends during this difficult time. Texas Game Wardens remain committed to keeping our public waters safe,” authorities said in a statement, per the news release.
PEOPLE have contacted Texas Parks & Wildlife and the Grapevine Police Department for an update on the investigation.
Read the original article on People
Lake Safety and hit-and-Run Watercraft accidents: Expert Insights After Tragic texas Incident
Time.news: This Memorial Day weekend, a tragic incident occurred on Grapevine Lake in Texas, where 18-year-old Ava Moore lost her life after being struck by a jet ski. We’re joined today by maritime safety expert, Dr. Evelyn Reed, to discuss the implications of this accident and what we can learn from it.Dr. Reed, thank you for being hear.
Dr. Evelyn Reed: Thank you for having me. It’s a very sad situation, and I hope we can shed some light on water safety and responsible boating.
Time.news: Absolutely. Dr. Reed, can you break down what happened based on the current reporting? The article mentions Ava Moore was kayaking when she was hit by a jet ski, and the operator allegedly fled the scene.
dr. Evelyn Reed: From what’s been reported, Ava Moore was tragically struck while kayaking on Grapevine Lake. What stands out is the alleged hit-and-run nature of the incident. The operator of the jet ski reportedly left the scene with a passenger,and then further compounded the situation by allegedly being involved in a separate automotive collision before abandoning their vehicle.
Time.news: This is a complex case involving a fatal boating accident and related hit-and-run charges. The article also mentions that Texas Game Wardens and the Grapevine Police Department are investigating. What are some of the specific challenges in investigating such incidents, especially ones that involve fleeing the scene?
Dr. Evelyn Reed: Investigating hit-and-run watercraft accidents presents unique challenges. Unlike a car accident, there isn’t always readily available evidence like skid marks or clear points of impact. Visibility in water can be limited, and weather conditions can quickly change and erode evidence. When a suspect flees, it also delays critical procedures like blood alcohol or drug testing, which are vital in determining impairment, and puts a strain on law enforcement and the community.
Time.news: It seems that the authorities are actively seeking facts from the public. What role does the public play in these types of investigations?
Dr. Evelyn Reed: The public can be instrumental. any eyewitness accounts, photos, or videos can substantially aid investigators in piecing together what happened. If someone witnessed the initial incident,the secondary car accident,or saw the individuals abandoning their car,contacting the Grapevine Police Department at [email protected] coudl provide vital clues. Even seemingly insignificant details could be crucial.
Time.news: The article notes that Ava Moore was wearing a life jacket. Can you speak to the importance of life jackets and other safety equipment in preventing boating fatalities?
Dr. Evelyn Reed: Life jackets are undeniably essential water safety. While the article mentions Ms. Moore was wearing one, it’s a sobering reminder that even with safety measures in place, accidents can still happen. However, life jackets dramatically increase survivability in the event of a collision or capsizing. Other safety gear, like whistles, flares, and interaction devices, are also crucial for alerting others in an emergency.
Time.news: What advice would you give to kayakers, jet ski operators, and other recreational boaters to help prevent similar tragedies from occurring in the future?
Dr. Evelyn reed: First and foremost, prioritize education and awareness. Jet ski operators need to undergo proper training and understand the rules of navigation, safe operation, and the potential dangers of reckless behavior. Kayakers and paddle boarders should make themselves visible, especially during dusk or dawn, by wearing radiant clothing and using reflective tape on their vessels. Everyone on the water needs to be keenly aware of their surroundings.
Time.news: Are there any specific laws or regulations that recreational boaters in Texas should be aware of?
Dr. Evelyn Reed: Texas, like many states, has specific regulations regarding boating safety, including requirements for personal flotation devices, lighting, and operation under the influence. The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department has comprehensive resources on their website outlining these laws. I urge anyone planning to be on the water to familiarize themselves with these regulations before setting out — and always designate a sober operator.
Time.news: The article also mentions a GoFundMe page has been set up for Ava Moore’s family. For our readers who want to help, or just learn more about this case, where can they go?
Dr. evelyn Reed: The GoFundMe page for Ava Moore’s family is a way to show support during this incredibly difficult time. I encourage our readers who are moved by this article to visit the page, and also keep the family of Ava Moore and all those involved in your thoughts
Time.news: Dr. Reed, thank you for sharing your expertise and insights with us today. This is a somber reminder of the importance of water safety and responsible boating practices.
Dr. Evelyn Reed: Thank you. Let’s all strive to make our waterways safer for everyone, remember Ava Moore, and respect the water.
