The family and loved ones of 17-year-old Kensley Holmes are mourning her heartbreaking passing following a devastating UTV accident near Duck Creek, Utah.
Kensley was camping with friends near Duck Creek when she went for a solo ride in a side-by-side on August 20. The vehicle left the road and struck a tree. She was later found unconscious at the crash scene after her boyfriend became concerned when he could no longer reach her and noticed that her location had not moved for hours.
Kensley suffered a severe traumatic brain injury along with fractures to her skull, neck, collarbone, shoulder and ribs. She also suffered serious injuries to her heart, liver and lungs.
She was transported to hospitals in Cedar City and St. George before being flown to Primary Children's Hospital in Salt Lake City. Doctors performed emergency brain surgery to relieve pressure caused by swelling.
Despite intensive medical treatment and the efforts of her family and medical teams, Kensley died nine days after the accident.
Her mother described her as a fiery, fun and silly 17-year-old who loved the outdoors, fishing and camping. She was also remembered as an amazing daughter, big sister and friend.
Kensley's death has left her family, friends and the wider Southern Utah community heartbroken. Loved ones are now holding onto the memories of a young life that ended far too soon.
May Kensley Holmes rest in peace, and may her family find strength and comfort during this heartbreaking time. 🕊️
