14-Year-Old Boy Dies While Returning Home from a Break – Father Speaks Out

On April 4, 2025, Jordan Thomas Laskowski, a 14-year-old boy, tragically lost his life in a car accident while returning home from a spring break trip in North Carolina with his family. The incident occurred on Interstate 65 near Lebanon, Indiana, due to a reported vehicle malfunction. Jordan’s mother, Taylor Kammes, was driving; Jordan and his 12-year-old sister, Riley, were ejected from the vehicle. Jordan died at the scene, while Riley sustained serious injuries and was hospitalized. Their younger sister, Gracie, along with their mom and grandmother, were also in the vehicle but were unharmed.People.com

Jordan’s father, Scott Laskowski, who was not in the vehicle at the time, expressed his profound grief on social media. He described Jordan as his best friend, sharing a deep bond over their mutual love for sports, music, and the Dallas Cowboys. Scott’s heartfelt tribute highlighted the pain of losing a son who was not only a beloved child but also a close companion.People.com

In the wake of this tragedy, a GoFundMe campaign was established to support the Laskowski family. The fundraiser has raised over $60,000, reflecting the community’s outpouring of support and recognition of Jordan’s role as a loving and protective older brother. The campaign serves as a testament to the impact Jordan had on those around him and the collective grief felt by all who knew him.News US+2People.com+2People.com+2

The accident remains under investigation, with authorities working to determine the exact cause of the vehicle malfunction that led to such a devastating outcome. The community has been urged to cherish their loved ones and hold them close, honoring Jordan’s memory by embracing the time they have with family and friends.People.com

This incident is part of a broader pattern of tragic events involving young lives lost under sudden and unforeseen circumstances. For instance, Michael Coffey, a 14-year-old from Tralee, County Kerry, died after being struck by a tractor while returning from a fishing trip with his father and friends. The accident occurred near Beaufort Bridge, highlighting the vulnerability of pedestrians and the importance of road safety.The Irish Sun

Similarly, in East Chicago, Indiana, 14-year-old K’Mari Mack lost his life after jumping into Lake Michigan despite warnings. The young boy began to struggle in the water and disappeared beneath the surface, leading to a recovery effort that, tragically, ended in his death. Such incidents underscore the need for vigilance and adherence to safety guidelines, especially among adolescents.AP News

These events serve as poignant reminders of the fragility of life and the unpredictable nature of accidents. They highlight the importance of safety precautions, attentive parenting, and community support systems. As families and communities mourn these losses, there is a collective call to action to prevent similar tragedies through education, awareness, and proactive safety measures.

In memory of Jordan Thomas Laskowski, his family and community continue to grieve, finding solace in shared memories and the support of those around them. The outpouring of love and financial support from the GoFundMe campaign reflect the deep impact Jordan had on his community and the enduring bonds of family and friendship. As investigations continue, the hope is that lessons learned will lead to safer practices and a heightened awareness of the potential dangers that exist in everyday activities.