Woodstock Teen Killed In UTV Accident In Kansas

WOODSTOCK, GA — A Cherokee County family is mourning the loss of a 15-year-old Woodstock teenager who died over the Memorial Day weekend in a UTV accident in rural Kansas. Taylor Patterson died from injuries sustained in the crash, which was reported around 4:45 p.m. Sunday, May 27 in the 400 block of East Assaria Road in Salinas County, said Capt. Jim Hughes with the Saline County Sheriff's Office.

A preliminary report indicates Patterson was driving the UTV while a family member was traveling as a passenger when she "appeared to have lost control on a gravel road."

The vehicle rolled over and partially ejected Patterson, who was also pinned under the UTV, Capt. Hughes said. The teen was transported to a local hospital where she died from her injuries. The passenger suffered non-life threatening injuries, he added.

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A GoFundMe page has been set up to help Taylor Patterson's family through this difficult time.

"This is an unthinkable tragedy and in addition to dealing with losing her, there is a heavy financial burden that will come with bringing Taylor home," said the fundraising team charged with the campaign. "Many of you have reached out to me asking how to help and this is the best way to help the Patterson’s. Thank you all so much and keep this amazing family in your prayers."

As of 2:40 p.m. Wednesday, the campaign has exceeded its $10,000 goal by raising $18,653.

"I am completely overwhelmed," said Nichole Tison in an update on the page. "The love and generosity this community has shown in the last 24 hours is out of this world. Every one of you has helped make a difference for this family. Thank you all so very much for your kind words and donations. Taylor Paige Patterson, you are loved so much more than words can say. Fly high sweet girl."

Cherokee County School District spokesperson Barbara Jacoby said Patterson was a rising sophomore at Woodstock High School.

“Our hearts are broken by the tragic loss of this young Wolverine known for her kindness and love of others,” Superintendent of Schools Dr. Brian Hightower said. “We ask the community to keep Taylor’s friends and family in their prayers.”

You can click here to donate to the GoFundMe campaign. According to her obituary, a funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, June 2 at Poole Funeral Home.

Capt. Hughes noted the accident is another unfortunate reminder of how dangerous UTVs can be for those who are untrained in operating them.

"They are very, very powerful, and they are not for the unskilled driver," he added.

Image via GoFundMe