Chazy teen mourned after fallen tree tragedy

CHAZY | As high winds whipped across the North Country midday Friday, a fallen tree turned into tragedy, claiming the life of a well-known teen athlete. New York State Police said the accident happened just after noon when Kennedy Columbus was driving a 2024 Ford Bronco west on Lake Shore Road. As she was driving, a tree fell from the north shoulder of the road and struck her vehicle, causing it to overturn and hit a utility pole, disconnecting power lines. The 18-year-old was declared deceased at the accident site. She was the sole occupant. Word of the tragedy spread quickly as the close-knit Chazy Central Rural School District community reeled in the loss and heartfelt condolences poured in from across the region. Columbus was a beloved senior athlete at Chazy Central and was just one week from leading her class into their futures as the 2025 graduation speaker. She was recently honored for her many accomplishments and impacts on the district, including being in the top of her class. She had committed to play Division III softball at Hilbert College, looking forward to the summer ahead before embarking on her next milestone. CCRS officials offered support services to students and faculty as the devastating loss rippled across the campus and community and the accomplished pitcher was remembered for her kindness, determination and upbeat personality on and off the field. Services are expected to be announced in the coming days. Lake Shore Road remained closed for several hours as the crash remained under investigation and power restoration efforts continued. Chazy firefighters rushed to the crash site and somberly provided traffic control through the evening. SOFTBALL STANDOUT Columbus was a four-year player on Chazy's varsity softball team. She most recently served as the Eagles' primary pitcher, and her senior season was highlighted by her first three outings. In Chazy's season-opening win against Boquet Valley on April 7, Columbus pitched a one-hitter with 15 strikeouts. Four days later, she pitched another complete game in Chazy's 13-3 defeat of Lake Placid, allowing two earned runs on four hits and nine strikeouts. She concluded the impressive stretch with a 14-strikeout performance against Boquet Valley on April 14, when she allowed two earned runs in Chazy's 13-3 victory. She did not issue a base on balls in the outing. Columbus intended to play softball at Division III Hilbert College in Hamburg, a suburb of Buffalo. Section VII officials were among the many deeply saddened by the tragic and heartbreaking loss, saying, "Our Section VII Family stands together and sends its condolences as we remember all the memories Kennedy Columbus left with us. "She was a teammate to many, but more importantly, a friend and a source of inspiration for everyone around her. A presence that lights up every game with a combination of determination, kindness, and strength now leaves a legacy to be cherished, remembered and carried on forever in our hearts."

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Chazy teen mourned after fallen tree tragedy

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