10-year-old girls who were ‘friends to many’ die in ATV crash. ‘Unimaginable loss’
Two 10-year-old girls described as best friends were recently killed in a Minnesota ATV crash.
Deputies with the Washington County Sheriff’s Office were called to the crash shortly after 5 p.m. Saturday, April 22, according to a news release. Both children were trapped under the ATV.
“Upon arrival, responders found the victims, both 10-years-old, and attempted lifesaving efforts; however, both were pronounced dead at the scene,” the sheriff’s office said. The cause of the crash is under investigation.
The girls have been identified as Alexis “Lexi” Marie Gibson, of Mahtomedi, and Savanna Lee Koeckeritz, of Afton, according to KARE. They were students of New Heights School in Stillwater.
“Both girls have been enrolled at our school together since Kindergarten and were members of the 4th/5th grade classroom,” Principal Tom Kearney said in a statement to McClatchy News. “Lexi and Savanna were both good students and friends to many throughout the school, but especially to those in their classroom.
“This tragedy has left a giant hole in our school community and our students, staff, and administration are doing everything we can to support the families of Lexi and Savanna,” he continued. “We ask that appropriate space and time are provided as the victims’ families, friends, and school community mourn the untimely and unimaginable loss of these precious young girls. They will be long-remembered as members of the New Heights Community!”
A GoFundMe on behalf of the Koeckeritz family says the girls were best friends.
Alexis ‘Lexi’ Gibson
“Lexi was a bright and caring young individual, cherished by her loved ones and respected by those who knew her,” according to her online obituary.
Loved ones described her as an energetic “beacon of hope and joy.”
“Lexi’s life was far too brief, yet her memory will endure in the lives of her family and friends who were fortunate to know her,” her family said. “She will be profoundly missed and remembered as a source of love, laughter, and inspiration.”
Savanna Koeckeritz
Savanna was described as a “sweet hearted and loving child who was adored by everyone she met.” She loved her life, trying new foods and doing silly dances.
She was also fearless, according to her online obituary.
“She would ride any ride at the amusement park; even the biggest roller coasters,” loved ones said. “She loved the thrill and the wind in her hair.”
This story was originally published April 26, 2023 at 11:27 AM with the headline "10-year-old girls who were ‘friends to many’ die in ATV crash. ‘Unimaginable loss’."