Gone Too Soon: 15-Year-Old Aleia Kuhn Killed in Tragic Church Accident Just Weeks Before Her Sweet 16

HENRY COUNTY, GA — A Georgia community is reeling after the sudden and heartbreaking death of 15-year-old Aleia Kuhn, who was fatally struck by a vehicle in the parking lot of Philippi Baptist Church on the night of Wednesday, June 18, 2025. The accident occurred shortly after a youth group meeting Aleia had attended — an event she was excited about, as she so often was when it came to her faith and her church family.

The teenager, described as kind-hearted, spirited, and full of life, was just 34 days away from celebrating her 16th birthday — a milestone she never got the chance to reach.

What Happened?

According to the Henry County Police Department, the accident occurred around 8:30 p.m. as youth group participants were exiting the church. Witnesses say Aleia was walking through the parking lot when she was accidentally hit by a vehicle. Emergency crews were called immediately, and despite life-saving efforts, Aleia was pronounced dead at the scene.

The driver remained on-site and is fully cooperating with authorities. Law enforcement officials have stated that there was no evidence of foul play, and the tragic event is being treated as a fatal accident.

A Family’s Devastating Loss

Aleia’s parents, siblings, and extended family are devastated. In a public statement released Thursday, they wrote:

“Our beautiful Aleia was taken from us far too soon. She was planning her Sweet 16 — she had her outfit picked out, her friends invited. Now we are preparing to lay her to rest. She loved big. She laughed often. She believed in kindness, in faith, and in her future. We are heartbroken.”

Her mother shared that just hours before the incident, Aleia was laughing with her younger brother, talking about birthday decorations and a possible trip to the beach. “She was full of joy,” her mom recalled, “and we had no idea it would be our last moment together.”

A Candlelight Vigil and Outpouring of Love

On the night following her death, the church community and local residents gathered at Philippi Baptist Church for a candlelight vigil. Hundreds came to pay tribute — teens, families, teachers, and pastors stood shoulder to shoulder in silence and prayer.

“She was the light in our youth ministry,” said Pastor Derrick Taylor. “Aleia had a gentle but powerful spirit. She could lift people up with just a look or a few words. Her absence is a wound we will carry for a long time.”

The steps of the church have since become a makeshift memorial, covered in pink and white flowers, candles, balloons, photos of Aleia, and handwritten notes — many from classmates who remember her smile, her singing voice, and her unwavering kindness.

Who Was Aleia Kuhn?

Aleia was a sophomore in high school who loved art, youth worship services, animals, and making personalized birthday cards for friends. She dreamed of becoming a pediatric nurse one day — a goal inspired by her love for children and her desire to help others heal.

Those close to her say she had a gift for making people feel safe and loved. “She wasn’t just nice — she was intentional,” said one classmate. “If you were having a bad day, she noticed. She cared.”

Aleia’s best friend described her as “the kind of friend you don’t find twice.”

Memorial and Foundation Plans

In honor of Aleia’s legacy, her family is launching the Aleia Grace Foundation, aimed at supporting:

• Church and youth group safety initiatives
• Teen girl mentorship programs
• Scholarships for faith-based leadership and healthcare education

“She wanted to help people,” her father said. “If even one life can be made better because of her story, we’ll know her spirit lives on.”

A public funeral service is scheduled for Saturday, June 29, 2025, at 11 a.m. at Philippi Baptist Church, with a reception and community lunch to follow. All are welcome to attend and honor Aleia’s life.

Community Reflection and Moving Forward

Church leaders have confirmed that youth events will be temporarily suspended while the church works with safety consultants to improve on-campus traffic control and supervision. “We owe it to Aleia, and to every child who walks through these doors, to ensure their safety,” said Pastor Taylor.

As the community continues to mourn, grief counselors have been made available at Aleia’s school and through local churches. Her story has sparked renewed conversations across Georgia about youth group safety, faith, and how fragile life can be.

Final Thoughts

Aleia Kuhn lived a short but meaningful life. She brought light to everyone she encountered — and now, in the wake of her tragic death, that light is shining through those left behind: her grieving family, her community, and the countless people who are choosing to honor her legacy with love, faith, and action.

She may not have made it to her Sweet 16, but Aleia will forever be remembered — not by the number of years she lived, but by the immeasurable impact she made in the lives of others.