Cal State Fullerton is mourning the loss of sophomore soccer player Lauren Turner, who passed away after a tragic collision with a box truck while she was riding her electric scooter on September 27. According to the statement from the Cal State Fullerton Athletics Department, Turner had been in the ICU for six weeks before her death on Friday.
Lauren Turner was remembered by her team as someone who brought light and joy to everyone around her. "Lauren was the funniest, most charismatic, and loving teammate you could ever ask for," her team shared in a tribute. To honor her memory, a candlelight vigil is set to quickly take place on Wednesday, Nov. 12, at 5:30 p.m. at Titan Stadium, as reported by CBS News Los Angeles.
Lauren's family expressed their grief on a GoFundMe page, detailing how she "approached everything she did with heart and joy" and that her laughter was a reflection of the joy God placed in her heart. "Our hearts are broken, and our family is forever changed," they shared, as stated by KTLA. Turner, known for her competitive spirit and leadership, had contributed to an unbeaten start for the Titans this season.
The accident, which occurred near the intersection of Associated Road and Yorba Linda Boulevard, also involved her teammate Ashlyn Gwynn, who suffered significant injuries. Gwynn's recovery has been described as miraculous, and her family remains hopeful for her return home in the near future for further rehabilitation. Donations to support both families can be made through GoFundMe pages set up in their names, as KTLA reports. People have been encouraged to come forward to support as the university community grapples with this immense loss.
