A tragic car accident claimed the life of Las Vegas high school senior McKenzie Scott just weeks before graduation.
An oncoming vehicle struck 18-year-old Scott near her school’s main entrance late in the morning.
Students were walking to class when the accident happened.
Paramedics rushed her to the hospital, but doctors could not save her life.
Police arrested the driver, 37-year-old Keenan Jackson, at the scene.
Jackson failed to yield while driving his Chevrolet Malibu, according to police.
Officers observed clear signs of impairment during roadside sobriety tests.
Authorities also discovered that Jackson was driving without a valid license.
Prosecutors charged him with DUI causing death and reckless driving.
The school community quickly reacted with heartbreak and disbelief.
Students had been looking forward to graduation season with excitement.
News of Scott’s death turned the celebration into sudden mourning.
“It’s the month of new beginnings,” said one senior. “Everything changed in just a few minutes.”
Many students learned about the crash during class periods.
School leaders canceled the planned graduation walk soon after the news broke.
Students say the road where the accident happened has long posed dangers.
They report the crosswalk near the entrance lacks proper signals and is difficult to navigate.
Classmates set up a memorial near the school gates.
They placed flowers, candles, stuffed animals, and handwritten notes honoring Scott’s memory.
“She was a beautiful girl with a bright smile,” one senior recalled. “She brought joy to everyone.”
The principal sent a letter to families offering grief counseling and community support.
A district leader also expressed condolences and urged drivers to slow down near schools.
Scott had won a full scholarship and planned to become a crime scene investigator.
Her mother described her as a light filled with hope, ambition, and kindness.
She leaves behind her mother and younger brother.
The community launched a fundraising page to help cover funeral expenses.
Local residents have already donated thousands to assist the grieving family.
“Please pray for strength,” the family wrote. “Our hearts are broken, and we are devastated.”
Officials continue urging drivers to remain alert and cautious in school zones.
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