On September 27, two Cal State Fullerton women’s soccer players were involved in a severe traffic collision while riding electric scooters. The incident occurred when the two young women were using their scooters in the southbound lane when a box truck collided with them, causing life-threatening injuries. Lauren Turner, one of the individuals involved, suffered serious injuries and spent the next six weeks in the ICU before ultimately passing away on November 7. Her teammate, Ashlyn Gwynn, was also critically injured, requiring a prolonged stay in the hospital, and is still recovering.
Following the tragedy, the Cal State Fullerton Athletics Department released an official statement on Monday, expressing their heartbreak and extending their condolences to Turner’s family and teammates. They noted the profound impact she had on the campus and the Titan community. Her team members also expressed how much she was loved and missed, particularly praising her humor, charisma, and the way she brought joy to those around her.
The Fullerton Police Department confirmed that the investigation into the collision is ongoing. While the cause of the accident is still under review, preliminary reports indicate alcohol and drugs were not suspected to be involved. Despite the lack of evidence pointing to substance use, the severity and tragic outcome of the incident have raised questions about road safety, particularly for cyclists and scooter riders.
Turner’s family expressed their gratitude for the outpouring of support and love from the broader community. Their GoFundMe statement described her as someone who always faced life with joy and optimism, making everyone she encountered feel comfortable and uplifted. Her teammates described her as a source of encouragement and motivation on and off the field, embodying the values of team spirit and leadership.
Meanwhile, Gwynn continues her recovery process. According to the GoFundMe update, she is making progress, though she still faces a long and difficult road to full recovery. Her family has shared that she is attempting to communicate through nods and mouth movements and can move her arms and legs with purpose. They are hopeful about her long-term prognosis and are preparing to transfer her to a specialized rehabilitation hospital in Houston, Texas, for continued care.
The incident has drawn attention from the broader community and has sparked discussions about the need for safer road conditions for e-scooter riders. While no financial implications are directly linked to this news, it has highlighted the importance of public safety, particularly regarding the use of e-scooters and the potential risks involved.
In light of the tragedy, the school has also emphasized the importance of supporting its athletes and the emotional well-being of its students. The incident has sparked an even greater focus on team dynamics and the need for empathy and support for students facing challenges both on and off the field. As the community continues to process this loss, the memory of Lauren Turner will be cherished and remembered for the positive impact she had on those around her.