KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A 16-year-old Northland teen died Monday from injuries sustained in a car accident Sunday morning.
Kelsey M. Morris was on her way to First Baptist Church of Northern Heights on Sunday morning. She was in a Hyundai with her younger brother, Jordan, and two other church youth group friends. Their 23-year-old youth minister was driving.
At about 10:45 a.m., a van pulled out from a stop sign at NW 68th and North Ames. The two vehicles collided. Morris, who was not wearing a seatbelt, hit her head on the windshield.
Pastor Ron Davis said congregation members held a vigil outside Kelsey's room all night on Sunday at Truman Medical Center. However, she was taken off life support shortly after 8 a.m.
"She was just a joy to be around. She would brighten up the room when she would come in," Davis said. "This is a tragedy. There is no rhyme or reason to what happened."
The news reached Platte County High School on Monday morning, where Kelsey was a sophomore. The superintendent of the Platte County R-3 School District released a statement following her death. Scroll down to read the statement.
Kelsey was a member of the Pirates' volleyball team. On Monday, students decorated her locker and made posters in her honor.
"Before we found out she died, everyone was praying for her," said student Emma Barnes. "It was really sad. I cried for her today."
"It's been really hard on everyone. Everyone has been supporting each other, crying and giving hugs. She was a really cool girl," said student Unique Gordon.
A memorial Web page has been set up on Facebook. Facebook users can leave their comments or memories of Kelsey.
You must be a Facebook user to see the memorial on Facebook.
The driver of the van, 26, and everyone else in the Hyundai suffered non life-threatening injuries. Kansas City police are investigating to see if speed played a factor in the crash.
Kelsey's brother had a broken arm and cracked ribs, but was expected to be released from Children's Mercy Hospital on Monday night, according to Davis. The two other teens also suffered some broken bones.
Davis said the congregation planned to gather and pray for the Morris family on Monday night. He said faith is guiding them through the pain.
"They believe in that. They trust in that and that's what they're holding onto," said Davis. "They look forward to the day they can walk with her again."
Statement from Platte County R-3 School District Superintendent
Date: October 12, 2009
Time: 2:50 pm
RE: Response to Death of Student, Kelsey Morris
It is with deep sorrow that I must share with you a tragedy in our Platte County School District Family. Kelsey Morris, a sophomore at Platte County High School, died from complications resulting from a car accident. Kelsey’s brother, Jordan Morris, survived the accident. Jordan is a student at Platte City Middle School.
Our Counseling Crisis Plan has been set in motion to respond to student and staff needs. Counselors and Social Workers across the district are assisting at PCHS and PCMS, as needed, to assist in grieving. Additionally, Tri-County Mental Health is on site to assist with staff needs. The faith community is also on site offering their services during this sad time.
As you might imagine, students have reacted in different ways to this tragedy. During this tragedy, we will focus on being supportive, encouraging discussion, and actively listening to our students.
We are deeply saddened by this news. Our sympathy, concern and prayers are with the family and friends of Kelsey Morris.
Sincerely,
Dr. Mike Reik
Superintendent of Schools
