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Boyd County Mourns the Heartbreaking Loss of Kylie Crooks

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Boyd County Mourns the Heartbreaking Loss of Kylie Crooks
Community Grieves the Sudden Passing of a Bright Star on and off the Volleyball Court

BOYD COUNTY, KY — June 2025 .The Boyd County community is grappling with a profound sense of loss following the tragic and untimely passing of Kylie Crooks, a vibrant and gifted young woman whose radiant spirit, athletic talent, and kind heart made a lasting impact on all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her sudden departure has left family, friends, classmates, teammates, and coaches devastated—and a community united in grief.

Kylie, a standout volleyball player for Boyd County High School, was known not only for her athletic prowess on the court but also for the joy, determination, and warmth she brought to everything she did. Whether it was spiking a game-winning point, cheering on a teammate, or offering a kind word to someone in need, Kylie exuded a light and positivity that made her unforgettable.

Her passing has sent shockwaves through the tight-knit Boyd County area, where she was admired as both an exceptional student-athlete and a beloved daughter, sister, and friend. Social media has been flooded with messages of sorrow and remembrance, with tributes pouring in from across the region.

“She had the heart of a lion and the soul of an angel,” wrote one of her coaches. “Kylie didn’t just play volleyball—she lived it. She gave her all every day, not just for herself, but for her team, her school, and her family.”

Kylie was not just a leader on the court; she was a source of strength and inspiration in the hallways of Boyd County High. Teachers remember her as bright, respectful, and deeply engaged, someone who consistently went above and beyond both academically and personally. Her teammates recall the late-night practices, long bus rides, and pre-game rituals filled with laughter and encouragement. She had an uncanny ability to uplift others even on the hardest of days.

Beyond her talents and accolades, Kylie was deeply compassionate and community-minded. She often volunteered her time with local youth programs and church events, always eager to give back. Friends describe her as loyal, fiercely supportive, and genuine to the core—a person who made you feel like you mattered.

As the news of her passing continues to ripple outward, the Boyd County Board of Education, athletic department, and school administration have extended their deepest condolences to the Crooks family and have offered grief counseling and support services to students and staff coping with this unimaginable loss.

“Kylie represented the very best of us,” said the Boyd County Schools Superintendent. “She was more than a student-athlete. She was a role model, a friend, and a beacon of hope and energy for everyone who met her.”

A candlelight vigil is being planned in Kylie’s honor at the school’s volleyball gym, where teammates, coaches, classmates, and members of the public will gather to reflect, remember, and celebrate a life that, though far too short, was filled with meaning and love. Plans are also underway to retire her jersey number and establish a scholarship in her name to support future female athletes who embody the same spirit Kylie brought to the game and to life.

In this time of mourning, the community has rallied together in support of Kylie’s family, offering prayers, meals, and comfort. While words may feel inadequate in the face of such heartbreak, there is solace in the overwhelming love being shown by those whose lives were touched by hers.

“We may never understand why she was taken from us so soon,” said a family friend, “but we do know that Kylie lived with purpose. She loved deeply, laughed often, and gave everything her all. That’s how she’ll be remembered.”

Funeral arrangements are being handled by a local funeral home, with service details to be announced in the coming days. The family has asked for privacy as they process their grief, and encourages the community to honor Kylie’s memory by living with the same kindness, courage, and dedication that defined her.

Kylie Crooks may be gone from this world, but her legacy—of athletic excellence, unwavering friendship, and unstoppable joy—will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

Rest in peace, sweet Kylie. You will forever be our champion, our inspiration, and our shining light. 🕊️

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CLEARWATER COUNTY, ID — Tragedy Strikes as 18-Year-Old Sheldon Medford Dies in Boulder Accident While Camping CLEARWATER COUNTY, Idaho (Gray News) — What was meant to be a peaceful and memorable weekend in the wilderness ended in unthinkable tragedy when a young Idaho man lost his life in a freak accident. Authorities have confirmed that 18-year-old Sheldon Medford, a resident of Lewiston, was killed after being struck and pinned by a falling boulder while camping in the Ahsahka area of Clearwater County on the evening of June 7. According to a statement released by the Clearwater County Sheriff’s Office, emergency dispatchers received a distress call just after 9:30 p.m. reporting a serious accident along Northfork Drive, approximately one mile down the remote stretch known for its rugged beauty and rocky terrain. When first responders arrived at the scene, they found Medford already pinned beneath a massive boulder. Tragically, he was pronounced dead at the scene. Officials described the boulder as large and heavy enough that it would have required significant effort and equipment to move. Investigators believe the boulder dislodged from a nearby rock face, likely due to natural erosion or shifting soil, and struck Medford as he was either setting up camp or resting nearby. The incident appears to have been a tragic accident, and no foul play is suspected. “This was a heartbreaking and unforeseeable incident,” said Clearwater County Sheriff Chris Goetz. “Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Medford family during this incredibly difficult time. Losing someone so young and full of life in such a sudden, tragic way is something no family should have to endure.” Sheldon Medford was well known in the Lewiston community for his friendly spirit, sense of adventure, and kind-hearted nature. Friends and family described him as a young man who loved the outdoors, often finding peace and joy in the forests, rivers, and wild terrain of northern Idaho. He had recently graduated from high school and was preparing for the next chapter of his life—whether that meant continuing his education or exploring career opportunities that would allow him to stay close to the land he loved so dearly. “Sheldon had a deep love for nature,” a family friend said. “Camping, hiking, fishing—those were his passions. He was always the one to suggest a weekend out under the stars. It’s devastating that the very place he found the most peace is where his life ended.” In the days following the incident, tributes have poured in from across the community. At Lewiston High School, where Sheldon had just completed his senior year, students and teachers gathered for a moment of silence. A memorial adorned with flowers, photos, and heartfelt messages now stands near the school’s entrance—a testament to the impact Sheldon had on those around him. Social media has also been flooded with condolences and remembrances, with many friends sharing photos of camping trips, fishing outings, and moments of laughter spent with Sheldon. One post read, “He was the kind of friend who made everything fun. No matter how cold or muddy the trip was, Sheldon made it worth it.” Authorities have reminded outdoor enthusiasts to always be aware of natural hazards when exploring or camping in rocky or mountainous areas. While tragedies like this are extremely rare, they serve as sobering reminders of the unpredictable power of nature. A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to support the Medford family with funeral expenses and to help create a memorial in Sheldon’s honor. The family has expressed deep gratitude for the outpouring of love and support from the community. Funeral arrangements are currently being finalized and will be announced in the coming days. In the meantime, the Medford family has asked for privacy as they grieve the unimaginable loss of their son, brother, and friend. As Clearwater County and the surrounding communities continue to mourn, Sheldon Medford will be remembered not only for the way he died—but for the way he lived: with courage, compassion, and an adventurous heart that found joy under Idaho’s open skies.