A young mom-to-be from South Carolina has tragically died following a freak go-kart accident.
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Baylee Johnson, 24, who was 16 weeks pregnant with her first child, died on Monday, August 31.
Johnson's death came eight days after her hair became caught in the sprocket of a go-kart, causing her neck to hyperextend.
The tragic accident occurred at a track in Sumter, South Carolina.
Go-Kart Accident Claims Life of Pregnant Mom-to-Be
According to Sumter County Coroner Robbie Barker, the accident cut off Johnson's oxygen supply.
Johnson had no pulse by the time rescuers freed her from the go-kart. However, emergency responders managed to revive her before rushing her to a nearby hospital.
Despite the life-saving efforts of medical personnel, Johnson later died from her injuries. Her unborn son, who was named Johnny, also passed away.
"Baylee Olivia Johnson, 24, and her precious unborn son, Johnny, went home to Jesus on Monday, August 31, 2026, at McLeod Regional Medical Center in Florence, South Carolina, surrounded by their loving family," her obituary reads.
"The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to the physicians, nurses and entire care team at McLeod Regional Medical Center for the extraordinary compassion, honesty, patience, prayers and tenderness shown to Baylee, Johnny and their family during the most difficult days of their lives."
"Your kindness and care will never be forgotten."
Family Mourns Baylee Johnson and Unborn Son
Johnson's partner, Justin Loweder, revealed the couple's pregnancy publicly before her death as she remained in critical condition.
"This isn't how Baylee and I ever imagined sharing this news, but God has blessed us with a baby boy. Baylee is carrying our sweet Johnny, due February 21," he wrote on Facebook.
"We were waiting to announce him together at the right time, but with Baylee's condition so critical, Johnny's future is also critical and uncertain. We are placing them both in God's hands and trusting that he is holding them close."
Johnson is survived by Loweder, her parents, two sisters, two grandmothers and other extended family members.
She worked at Prisma Health OB/GYN-Sumter and "loved hunting and fishing, racing go-karts, shopping and spending time with her family."
Johnson also had two dogs, Ruby and Roscoe. Her faith also played an important role in her life and that of her family.
Her obituary adds that the family "witnessed an extraordinary outpouring of kindness, generosity, compassion and faith that will never be forgotten."
"Although that miracle did not come in the way they so desperately hoped, they continue to trust the same God they called upon throughout those difficult days."
"There is comfort in knowing that Baylee and Johnny never had to say goodbye to one another."
