‘A guardian angel beside me:’ Teens killed in fiery Oviedo crash remembered
Share this @internewscast.com

It is a tragedy that broke the hearts of many in Oviedo when 17-year-old Kayla Ross and 15-year-old Marjie Whitman lost their lives after their vehicle struck a tree in Oviedo and caught fire.

The single-vehicle wreck happened Aug. 19 around 1:40 a.m. on Alafaya Woods Boulevard near Covington Street in the Alafaya Woods subdivision.

On Saturday afternoon, more than a hundred people came out to Horsepower Ranch to help the families celebrate the lives of the two young women.

[RELATED VIDEO: Family speaks with News 6 after 15-year-old killed in Oviedo crash]

Ross’ side of the memorial was decorated in black and red, while Whitman ’s was decorated in blue and pink.

The families decided to hold the service together because, as they said, the teens were as close as sisters.

They believe they couldn’t honor their memory without honoring their friendship.

During the memorial service, a prayer was recited: “We entrust these precious daughters, Kayla and Marjorie, safe from all pain and suffering. Lord, surround these families.”

Friends and family fought through tears as they said their final goodbyes.

“She’s made such a big impact on everyone,” a friend expressed. “I truly don’t know what to do now that she’s gone. I feel a little better knowing I’m going to have a guardian angel by my side.”

The families said Ross and Whitman were inseparable, which is why they chose a joint service.

“This is tragic, but they were together in that,” stated Kayla’s godmother, Kristin Brooks. “They shared friends. They shared loved ones. People cared about both of them together.”

From flowers and buttons to heartfelt notes, dozens who heard about the girls’ deaths surrounded the families with love and support.

“Her family is absolutely touched,” Brooks said. ”We all are. This is absolutely beautiful.”

Marjie Whitman’s father, Chad Whitman, expressed gratitude for the community’s support.

“It makes me feel like, in the short time that she was here with us, she really touched a lot of lives,” he said.

The outpouring of love also gave Ross’ younger sister, Lexi, the strength to speak.

[VIDEO: 2 dead in fiery crash on Alafaya Woods Boulevard in Oviedo]

“Kayla was very special to me. She never left my side and was always with me no matter what. Kayla, I just want to say I love you very much and rest well,” she said.

Officials say the specifics of the crash are still under investigation. Florida Highway Patrol referred questions to Oviedo Police, who confirmed that the case remains ongoing.

Share this @internewscast.com
You May Also Like

Breaking News: Marion County Shooting Leaves 3 Injured – Latest Updates from Deputies

Marion County, Fla. – A shooting incident in Marion County on Sunday…

Second Fatal Shooting in Minneapolis Intensifies Congressional Deliberations on Potential Government Shutdown

A recent high-profile incident involving the fatal shooting by a federal agent…

Top 5 Trends from Paris Men’s Fashion Week: Timeless Tailoring and Sustainable Style

PARIS – As the curtain fell on Paris Men’s Fashion Week this…

Tennessee vs. Ole Miss Women’s Basketball Game Postponed Amid Weather Concerns

In Knoxville, Tenn., the University of Tennessee Sports department has announced a…

Abingdon Public Works Clears Roads Amid Regional Power Restoration Efforts

The Town of Abingdon has declared a local state of emergency as…

Rep. Gary Hicks Unveils Key Financial Strategies for Tennessee: What Tri-Cities Needs to Know This Week

(WJHL) — In the latest installment of Tri-Cities This Week, State Representative…

Minnesota Shooting Tactics Under Scrutiny: Republican Leaders Demand Thorough Investigation

WASHINGTON – A growing number of Republicans voiced their unease Sunday over…

Oscar Mayer’s Iconic Wienermobile Returns to Steal the Show at Indy 500

INDIANAPOLIS – This May, the iconic Wienermobiles are set to return to…

Unexpected Emergency Landing Safely Executed at McGhee-Tyson Airport

An unexpected incident unfolded at McGhee-Tyson Airport in Knoxville on Saturday afternoon…

Widespread Power Outages Impact the Region: Latest Updates and Areas Affected

A fierce winter storm has swept across Northeast Tennessee and Southwest Virginia,…

Renowned BBC Correspondent Mark Tully, Celebrated as the ‘Voice of India,’ Passes Away at 90

NEW DELHI – Renowned for his deep, resonant voice and unparalleled storytelling,…

Icy Conditions Cause Widespread Power Outages for Thousands in Southwest Virginia

On Sunday evening, the harsh winter conditions in Southwest Virginia led to…