It is with profound sadness that the Garden City community mourns the heartbreaking loss of Jaeden Nelson, 24, who tragically lost her life in a car accident early Friday morning, September 12, 2025. Jaeden was not only a beloved daughter, partner, and friend, but also a devoted mother whose world revolved around her two young daughters, Emerie, 4, and Phoebe, 5 months.
A Life Cut Short Too Soon
According to officials, the accident occurred at approximately 4:05 a.m. in the 3700 block of East Mary Street. Jaeden’s vehicle struck a power line pole, and despite the immediate response of the Garden City Police Department, Fire Department, Finney County Sheriff’s Office, and EMS, she was tragically pronounced dead at the scene.
Her two daughters were traveling with her at the time. Firefighters worked swiftly to safely extricate both children, who were rushed to the hospital. Due to the severity of their injuries, they were later transported to Wichita for further treatment.
Emerie sustained a broken femur and underwent surgery the same afternoon. She also faces third-degree burns on her right foot, which will require additional surgeries, including skin grafts. Once released, she will remain non-weight-bearing and require a wheelchair during her recovery. Phoebe, the youngest, was admitted under close observation due to a possible brain bleed.
Remembering Jaeden
Born and raised with a spirit full of light, Jaeden was a young woman whose presence brought joy to everyone around her. She will be remembered for her kindness, her resilience, and above all, her dedication as a mother. Her daughters were the heart of her world, and she never hesitated to put their needs before her own.
Those who knew Jaeden describe her as vibrant, compassionate, and full of life. She had dreams of building a future filled with love and stability for her family, and though her journey was cut tragically short, her legacy will live on through her children.
Family and Community Support
Jaeden leaves behind her two beloved daughters, Emerie and Phoebe, and her significant other, Marco. She also leaves behind a grieving mother, family members, and countless friends who are now faced with an unimaginable loss.
In the aftermath of this tragedy, the family is not only coping with their grief but also facing overwhelming financial burdens, including medical expenses for the children, funeral costs, and the income loss needed for their care and recovery.
To help ease this hardship, a GoFundMe has been created to support Jaeden’s family during this difficult time. Donations will go directly toward medical bills, funeral expenses, and providing care for Emerie and Phoebe as they begin their long journey of healing.
👉 You can support the family here: GoFundMe for Jaeden Nelson
A Legacy of Love
Though Jaeden’s passing leaves a void that can never be filled, her memory will forever remain a source of strength for those who loved her. Her radiant spirit, her devotion to her children, and her unwavering love will continue to guide Emerie and Phoebe in the years ahead.
The family has asked for continued prayers—both for physical healing for the girls and for the emotional healing of everyone affected by this devastating loss. They are especially grateful for the outpouring of support from the Garden City community and beyond.
As friends, family, and neighbors come together to honor her life, Jaeden Nelson will be remembered not for the tragedy that took her, but for the love, light, and devotion she poured into the lives of those closest to her.