The Chazy, New York, community is mourning the heartbreaking loss of Kennedy Columbus, a vibrant 18-year-old senior at Chazy Central Rural School, who tragically lost her life in a freak accident on Friday, June 20, 2025.
Kennedy, known for her talent on the softball field and her bright future ahead, was killed when a tree suddenly fell on her car while she was driving on Lake Shore Road.
According to the New York State Police, Kennedy was traveling alone in her Ford Bronco just after noon when a tree from the north shoulder of the road unexpectedly fell, striking her vehicle.
The impact of the tree caused her SUV to overturn and crash into a utility pole, which triggered downed power lines. Despite the quick response of emergency crews, Kennedy was pronounced dead at the scene. No one else was involved in the accident.
The road was shut down for several hours as power crews worked to restore service and clear the debris. It reopened around 4:45 p.m., but the scars of the tragedy remain in the hearts of the Chazy community.
Kennedy was a star athlete, a beloved friend, and a soon-to-be graduate. She was best known as a standout pitcher on the Chazy Eagles softball team, earning recognition for her skill, determination, and leadership on and off the field.
Just last month, Kennedy was featured by NBC5 as a “Play of the Week” nominee after hitting an inside-the-park home run in Game 6 that helped secure a major win for the Eagles. Her drive and sportsmanship made her a role model to younger teammates and a source of pride for the school.
She was also just days away from graduating on June 27, an event she had looked forward to with excitement and anticipation. Her cap and gown, now unworn, symbolize the future that was stolen far too soon.
Her death has left classmates, teachers, coaches, and loved ones grappling with overwhelming grief and disbelief. In a heartfelt letter sent to the school community, the Chazy Central Rural School Superintendent described Kennedy’s passing as an “unimaginable loss,” urging parents and guardians to speak openly and gently with their children as they process this tragedy.
“No one should face this grief alone,” the letter read. “Our hearts are with Kennedy’s family and all who knew and loved her.” To help students and community members cope, Chazy High School opened its doors Friday evening, offering a space for reflection, remembrance, and support.
Counselors and mental health professionals are being made available in the coming days to help those struggling with the emotional toll of Kennedy’s death. Kennedy Columbus was more than a student-athlete. She was a daughter, a teammate, a friend, and a young woman filled with promise.
Her energy, her kindness, and her love for the game of softball were just small pieces of what made her so special. Whether on the mound striking out batters or in the classroom brightening someone’s day, Kennedy left a mark that will never fade.
