MASON COUNTY, MI — The Mason County Sheriff’s Office has confirmed the heartbreaking identity of a teenager who died in an off-road vehicle (ORV) crash last week in Logan Township. Authorities say 16-year-old Kieara Stockwell, a student at Ludington High School, died from injuries sustained in the crash that occurred on Wednesday evening, June 4.
According to a statement from Sheriff Kim Cole, the crash happened around 7:37 p.m. on a trail just south of Barothy Road. Deputies and emergency responders arrived to find two 16-year-old girls from Ludington at the scene. One of them, later identified as Kieara, was critically injured and airlifted by Aero Med to Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital in Grand Rapids. Despite efforts to save her, she later succumbed to her injuries.
Preliminary investigations by the Mason County Crash Reconstruction Team revealed that Kieara was driving a 2017 Honda Rancher 420 when the vehicle went off the trail and rolled over, trapping her beneath it. The cause of the crash remains under investigation, and authorities continue to gather details about the moments leading up to the tragic incident.
Kieara Stockwell was known as a loving daughter, sister, granddaughter, aunt, niece, and friend. Her family describes her as someone who brought joy to everyone she met. She had a passion for animals, dirt biking, and music, and she treasured time with her family—especially her young niece. She was often found laughing, smiling, and making memories with those closest to her.
Her untimely death follows the earlier loss of her older sister, Kassie, a tragedy that the family says brings some comfort now, believing the sisters are reunited. Loved ones shared a moving tribute, saying, “She always lived life to the fullest and never took a second for granted. We will make sure she has a place here on earth where we can always feel close to her.”
Ludington High School has made grief counselors available for students and staff as they process the devastating loss. The community continues to rally around the Stockwell family, remembering Kieara as a radiant soul taken far too soon.
