In Eagle Grove, Iowa, a profound silence has fallen, broken only by the soft whispers of grief. Kenna Mae, a 20-year-old whose radiant smile and boundless kindness touched countless lives, was taken far too soon in a tragic UTV accident along the Boone River in Wright County. Her passing has left a void in the hearts of her family, friends, and neighbors, who now gather to honor a young woman whose warmth and compassion defined her all-too-brief life.
The tragedy unfolded in the early hours of Saturday, September 6, 2025, at approximately 3:11 a.m., near Highway 3. Kenna Mae was a passenger in a John Deere Gator traveling along the river’s edge when the unthinkable happened. The 21-year-old driver, in a moment of misjudgment, veered too close to the riverbank. The vehicle slid, plummeting down a steep drop into the cold waters of the Boone River below. Both occupants were thrown from the Gator, but Kenna Mae, trapped beneath the overturned vehicle, could not be saved. The driver, though injured, survived the ordeal, now carrying the weight of a loss that has shaken an entire community.
Kenna Mae was more than just a name in Eagle Grove—she was a beacon of light. Known for her infectious laughter and gentle spirit, she had a rare gift for making everyone around her feel seen and valued. Whether she was sharing a quiet moment with family, offering a helping hand to a neighbor, or filling a room with her vibrant energy, Kenna Mae’s presence was a reminder of the power of kindness. Her life, though tragically brief, was a testament to living with purpose and love.
In the wake of this devastating accident, the Wright County Sheriff’s Office, Eagle Grove Police Department, Eagle Grove Ambulance, and Goldfield Fire Department came together, their efforts a somber reflection of the community’s unity in crisis. Yet, no amount of response could undo the heartbreaking outcome. As the investigation continues, the focus remains not on the details of the crash but on the legacy of a young woman who left an indelible mark.
Kenna Mae’s memory endures in the stories shared by those who loved her—tales of her selflessness, her joy, and her ability to uplift even in the darkest moments. Eagle Grove now mourns, not just for the loss of a life, but for the absence of a soul who brought so much beauty to the world. Her family and friends hold tight to the memories of her laughter, her strength, and the love she so freely gave. In their grief, they find solace in knowing that Kenna Mae’s light, though extinguished too soon, will forever shine in their hearts.