BELMONT, Miss. — The community of Belmont is mourning the tragic loss of Ava Colley, a vibrant 15-year-old sophomore at Belmont High School, who died following an ATV accident in Tishomingo County on Monday morning.
The Accident
According to Union County Coroner Pam Boman, the accident occurred early Monday morning while Ava was spending time with family members. Emergency responders arrived quickly on the scene and determined that her injuries required urgent care.
Medics initially planned to airlift Ava to a hospital in Memphis, Tennessee, for advanced treatment. However, due to a sudden worsening of her condition, the helicopter was forced to land at a hospital in New Albany, where Ava tragically passed away.
Community and School Response
The devastating news has shaken the tight-knit community of Belmont. Belmont High School, where Ava was enrolled as a sophomore, released a statement expressing condolences and offering support to grieving students and staff. School officials also shared funeral arrangements with the community to ensure that those who loved Ava could pay their respects.
Teachers described Ava as a bright, kind-hearted student who was deeply loved by her peers. Classmates have already begun planning tributes to honor her memory, including memorial displays at the school.
A Life Cut Short
Friends and family remember Ava as an outgoing teenager who loved life and cherished time with her family. Known for her laughter and warm smile, she had a way of lifting the spirits of those around her.
“She was such a light in our lives,” one family friend said. “It’s so hard to imagine school and community events without her.”
Funeral Arrangements
Details of Ava’s funeral services have been shared through Belmont High School to help accommodate the many community members wishing to attend. Family, friends, teachers, and classmates are expected to gather in large numbers to celebrate her life and support her grieving loved ones.
Broader Awareness
While ATV riding remains a popular recreational activity in Mississippi and neighboring states, tragedies like this highlight the risks involved. Local officials are reminding the community to prioritize safety measures, especially for young riders, to help prevent future accidents.
Community Healing
As Belmont grieves, neighbors, classmates, and friends have rallied to support Ava’s family. Vigils and prayer gatherings are being organized, offering comfort and solidarity during this heartbreaking time.
The loss of Ava Colley has left a profound void in Tishomingo County, one that will be deeply felt by all who knew her.