A middle school cheerleader in North Carolina has died after being involved in a golf cart accident. She was 13.
Julia Rooney died on Monday, March 23, the Mooresville Police Department confirmed on Wednesday, March 25.
The cheerleader and a group of friends were riding in a golf cart in a local subdivision at around 5 p.m., when Rooney fell out of the front passenger seat while the vehicle attempted to make a slight turn. Speed is not believed to be a factor in the accident.
Investigators said other passengers involved in the crash were injured, but did not specify how many or to what extent.
“Our thoughts are with the families impacted during this difficult time,” police said.
A crash reconstruction team was on the scene on Tuesday, March 24, attempting to piece together exactly what happened, according to WSOC.
The outlet reported that counselors and other resources have been made available for students and staff at Woodland Heights Middle School, where Rooney was a student.
ATA Cheer Lake Norman, where Rooney competed, paid tribute to her on social media.
“Julia Rooney was not only a teammate, but a friend, a light in our gym, and someone who made an impact on everyone she met,” the group shared via Instagram. “The mat will never feel the same without her. From her days as a youth athlete to her time as a senior, she always carried the same bright smile. We know this will be incredibly hard for our athletes, and we want you to know we are here for them every step of the way. Please hug your babies a little tighter tonight.”
The post continued, “Please keep Julia’s family and loved ones in your thoughts and prayers as we all navigate this loss together. The gym will be open for anyone who needs a place to gather, reflect, or be together. We will share additional information as it becomes available. Once a part of our gym, always a part of our family. 💙.”
Rooney’s school district sent an email to families after news of her death was announced.
“It is with a heavy heart that we share some very sad news with our school community,” read the email, which was obtained by WCNC Charlotte. “Last night, we experienced a tragic loss of one of our Woodland Heights Middle School students. Our thoughts and prayers are with the student’s family, friends, and all those who knew and loved them.”
The note added, “Please join us in keeping the family in your thoughts and prayers. We are committed to walking through this difficult time together, as a Woodland Heights family.”
