ASTON, PA — Community Grieves Tragic Loss of 12-Year-Old Abigail Gillon Following Scooter Accident; Best Friend Isabella Jones in Critical Condition
The tight-knit community of Aston, Pennsylvania is reeling from a devastating tragedy that has left families, friends, and neighbors shattered. On Monday afternoon, 12-year-old Abigail Gillon succumbed to severe injuries sustained during a horrific scooter accident over the weekend. Her best friend, 11-year-old Isabella “Bella” Jones, continues to fight for her life in critical condition at a local hospital.
According to officials and family members, the accident occurred late Saturday evening near the girls’ neighborhood while they were riding their electric scooters, a favorite weekend pastime for the inseparable pair. Details surrounding the exact circumstances remain under investigation, but preliminary reports suggest that a collision with a vehicle may have been involved.
Emergency responders arrived at the scene within minutes, finding both girls with traumatic injuries. They were rushed to the hospital, where Abigail was placed on life support. Despite the efforts of medical teams and a community fervently praying for her recovery, Abigail passed away peacefully Monday afternoon, surrounded by family and loved ones.
Bella Jones remains in the intensive care unit in critical condition. Her family has asked for privacy as they navigate this deeply traumatic time but has expressed gratitude for the outpouring of love and support from the community.
A Bright Light Gone Too Soon
Abigail Gillon, fondly known as “Abby” by her friends and family, was a sixth-grader at Northley Middle School. Described by teachers as bright, kind, and endlessly compassionate, Abigail had a spark that brought warmth to every room she entered. She loved animals, enjoyed painting, and had dreams of becoming a veterinarian. Her laugh was infectious, and her friendship with Bella was something admired by classmates and neighbors alike.
“She had this incredible ability to make people feel included, seen, and loved,” said Mrs. Karen Holton, one of her teachers. “Losing Abby is a blow not just to our school, but to our hearts.”
The Gillon family released a statement expressing their heartbreak:
“Our daughter Abigail was a shining light in our lives. She was strong, funny, and full of love. This loss is unbearable, but we are so grateful for the community’s support. Please continue to keep Bella in your prayers.”
Vigils, Tributes, and an Outpouring of Support
In the hours following the news of Abigail’s passing, an impromptu candlelight vigil was held outside the girls’ school. Hundreds gathered with candles, flowers, and handwritten notes, many wearing pink—Abigail’s favorite color.
A growing memorial now sits at the corner of the street where the accident occurred, filled with stuffed animals, balloons, and photos of the two girls.
“We’re heartbroken,” said neighbor and family friend Dawn Mitchell. “It’s every parent’s worst nightmare. Abby and Bella were like sisters. To see them laughing and playing one day, and then this…it’s just unimaginable.”
Local churches, community centers, and schools have opened grief counseling sessions for students and families affected by the tragedy.
A GoFundMe campaign launched to support both families has already raised tens of thousands of dollars, highlighting the solidarity of a community determined to rally around its own in the darkest of times.
Holding on to Hope
While the community mourns Abigail’s passing, hope remains for Bella’s recovery. Friends describe her as courageous and strong—a girl who loved to sing and tell jokes, and who had recently joined a local soccer team.
“She’s always been a fighter,” said a family friend. “If anyone can pull through this, it’s Bella.”
The Jones family has asked the community to continue lifting Bella in their thoughts and prayers. A prayer vigil is scheduled later this week, with updates on Bella’s condition expected in the coming days.
A Painful Reminder and Call for Safety
The tragedy has also reignited conversations around safety measures for children using scooters and other small electric vehicles. Community leaders are urging local officials to explore options for increased traffic signage, speed bumps, and education on helmet use and street safety.
Abigail’s story, though cut far too short, has already sparked a wave of reflection—and resolve.
“She lived only 12 years, but her impact will be felt forever,” said one mourner at the vigil. “Now, it’s on all of us to protect the children in our neighborhoods, to love a little louder, and to never take a single moment for granted.”
As Aston mourns, the memory of Abigail Gillon lives on in every pink ribbon tied around a lamppost, every candle flickering in the night, and every tearful hug shared by those who loved her. May her light continue to guide, even in this time of sorrow. And may Bella feel that love and fight her way back to a world that’s not ready to lose her too.