Tragedy on Grapevine Lake: 18-Year-Old Ava Moore Killed in Hit-and-Run Jet Ski Collision While Kayaking
Grapevine, TX — May 26, 2025
The community of Grapevine, Texas, is mourning the sudden and heartbreaking loss of 18-year-old Ava Moore, whose life was tragically cut short in a hit-and-run jet ski collision on Sunday evening, May 25. Ava was kayaking on the serene waters of Grapevine Lake near Oak Grove Park when she was struck by a speeding jet ski. The impact was catastrophic, and despite immediate efforts to rescue her, Ava succumbed to her injuries at the scene.
The incident occurred around 7:15 p.m., just as families and outdoor enthusiasts were enjoying the waning hours of the holiday weekend at the popular lakeside destination. Witnesses described a chaotic and horrifying scene as the jet ski—allegedly operated recklessly at high speed—collided with Ava’s kayak and then fled the area without stopping to help or alert emergency services.
First responders from the Grapevine Fire Department and the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department arrived within minutes after multiple 911 calls were made. Lifesaving measures were attempted, but Ava had suffered critical injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities immediately launched a search for the jet ski operator responsible for the hit-and-run.
A Community in Shock
Ava Moore, a recent high school graduate with plans to attend the University of Texas in the fall, was known for her kind heart, academic excellence, and love for nature. Friends describe her as a bright light in their lives—compassionate, adventurous, and full of promise. Her death has sent shockwaves through the Grapevine community and beyond.
“She was one of the most vibrant souls you could ever meet,” said Ella Carter, Ava’s childhood friend. “She had dreams of studying environmental science and making a difference in the world. It’s hard to believe she’s gone just like that—doing something she loved.”
Ava’s family is devastated. In a public statement, her parents, Ryan and Melissa Moore, described her as “our sunshine, our dreamer, our fearless girl,” and pleaded with the public to come forward with any information that may help identify the person responsible for the fatal collision.
The Search for the Suspect
Authorities say the suspect was operating a dark-colored personal watercraft—possibly a black or dark blue jet ski—and was last seen heading westward toward the opposite shore of the lake following the collision. Investigators believe the operator may have been part of a group seen riding earlier that day but left the area before law enforcement could make contact.
Texas Parks and Wildlife Department game wardens are working closely with Grapevine Police and regional agencies, reviewing surveillance footage from nearby docks, marinas, and lakeside properties in hopes of identifying the jet ski and its operator. They are also urging anyone who was on the water Sunday evening, especially those with photos or videos, to come forward.
“This is a criminal investigation,” said Officer Miguel Andrade of Grapevine PD. “Leaving the scene of a collision—especially one resulting in death—is a felony. We are doing everything in our power to track this individual down and hold them accountable.”
Tips can be submitted anonymously to the Grapevine Police Department or through Crime Stoppers of Tarrant County.
Questions About Water Safety
The tragedy has also renewed concerns about water safety and the enforcement of boating regulations on Texas lakes. Grapevine Lake, a reservoir operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, is a popular destination for both motorized and non-motorized watercraft, but locals say there’s a growing disregard for safety protocols.
“We’ve seen more and more reckless behavior out here—people speeding too close to shore, ignoring no-wake zones, and failing to watch for kayakers and paddleboarders,” said Alan Rivera, a regular boater at the lake. “It’s a ticking time bomb.”
In response to the incident, officials have pledged to increase patrols on the lake and review current safety guidelines. There are also calls from the community for designated zones to separate motorized and non-motorized recreation.
Honoring Ava’s Memory
In the wake of Ava’s death, friends and neighbors have organized a candlelight vigil, scheduled for Wednesday evening at Oak Grove Park. Attendees will gather to honor her life, share memories, and demand justice.
Her former high school, Grapevine High, has also announced plans to dedicate a memorial bench and tree on campus in her memory. Grief counselors have been made available to students and faculty who are struggling to process the tragedy.
Ava’s family has launched the Ava Moore Memorial Fund, aimed at promoting water safety education, improving recreational regulations, and supporting scholarships for young women pursuing environmental science.
As the investigation continues, the community of Grapevine stands united in grief and determination, vowing not to let Ava’s death be in vain. They seek not only answers but change—to ensure that what happened on the waters of Grapevine Lake never happens again.
If you have any information related to this case, please contact Grapevine Police at (817) 410-8127 or Crime Stoppers at 817-469-TIPS.