Community Grieves After Tragic Crash Claims Four Young Lives at YNOT After School Camp
In a heartbreaking incident that has sent shockwaves through the local community, authorities have confirmed the names of the four young individuals who lost their lives when a vehicle crashed into the YNOT After School Camp on the afternoon of April 28. The victims, whose ages ranged from 7 to 18, were remembered by family, friends, and teachers as bright lights with promising futures.
The four lives tragically cut short in the crash are:
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Ainsley Johnson, 8
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Rylee Britton, 18
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Kathryn Corley, 7
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Alma Buhnerkempe, 7
The crash occurred around 3:20 p.m. when a Jeep Grand Cherokee, driven by 44-year-old Marianne Akers, veered off course, drove through a grassy field, and smashed into the east side of the YNOT After School Camp building. According to investigators, the vehicle struck children who were both outside and inside the facility, before crashing through the opposite wall and coming to a stop.
Six other individuals sustained injuries in the incident. One remains in critical condition at a nearby hospital, while others are recovering from varying degrees of trauma, both physical and emotional.
A Sudden and Devastating Loss
The sudden loss of Ainsley, Rylee, Kathryn, and Alma has left families devastated and an entire town in mourning. Memorials and vigils have already begun appearing at the site of the crash — a once joyful space filled with laughter and activity now marked by sorrow and silence. Flowers, stuffed animals, handmade cards, and candles line the perimeter, as members of the community come together in grief and support.
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Ainsley Johnson, just 8 years old, was described by her family as full of energy, with a boundless curiosity and a love for animals.
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Rylee Britton, 18, had recently graduated high school and was volunteering at the camp as a mentor to younger children. Friends say Rylee had dreams of becoming a teacher and had a rare gift for connecting with kids.
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Kathryn Corley, 7, was known for her bright smile and her talent in dance. She was excited about her upcoming recital and often put on performances at home for her family.
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Alma Buhnerkempe, also 7, had a passion for storytelling and drawing. Her teachers said she had an imagination beyond her years and a kindness that lifted others around her.
The Ongoing Investigation
While the community mourns, investigators continue to piece together exactly what happened that afternoon. The driver, Marianne Akers, was not injured in the crash and is currently not in police custody. Authorities confirmed that Akers failed a field sobriety test at the scene, but her blood alcohol content (BAC) registered at 0.00. Officials suspect that a medical issue may have played a role in the crash, though toxicology results are still pending.
“There’s no indication at this time that the crash was intentional,” said a spokesperson for local law enforcement during a press conference. “We are waiting for the results of a full medical and toxicological examination to determine the cause.”
No charges have been filed yet, and the investigation remains active. Law enforcement is working with medical professionals and accident reconstruction experts to better understand the sequence of events leading up to the fatal crash.
Grief, Support, and a Community in Shock
Counselors have been made available to students, families, and staff at the YNOT After School Camp, as well as in local schools. The trauma of witnessing such a violent and sudden tragedy has left many children frightened and confused, while parents struggle with the unimaginable pain of losing a child.
City leaders have vowed to support the affected families and to examine safety measures that could prevent such a tragedy from happening again. Community organizations have begun raising funds to assist with funeral costs, medical bills, and mental health resources for those impacted.
A candlelight vigil is planned for later this week, where community members will gather to remember the lives lost, offer support to the grieving families, and begin the long process of healing together.
This tragedy is a painful reminder of life’s fragility and the depth of impact one moment can have on so many. As the community searches for answers, it also clings to one another — united in mourning, love, and the shared memory of four beautiful souls who were taken far too soon.
