McKenzie Scott, 18, was set to graduate from Arbor View High School in just a few weeks. While outside the school's main entrance, however, on Friday, May 2, she was allegedly struck by Keenan Jackson, 37, while showing "signs of impairment." Scott died after being transferred to a local hospital. Now, her classmates and loved ones remember her fondly, devastated by her loss.
Videos by Wide Open Country
The tragic incident took place on May 2 at around 11:25 in Las Vegas, Nevada, at the intersection of North Buffalo Drive and Grand Teton Drive, according to the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department. In a
video shared online, Metro Lt. Anthony Cavaricci said that Scott's death was "extremely sad," given that she was about to graduate.The driver, Jackson, who allegedly struck Scott after he "failed to yield the right of way," as per police, was charged with DUI of alcohol and/or controlled substance resulting in death, reckless driving, and driving without a valid license, according to the Las Vegas Review-Journal.
Remembering McKenzie Scott
One fellow Arbor View High School senior, Brayden Boulter, remembered Scott after attending Jackson's initial hearing, where he was charged.
"It's the beginning of May and it's that month where we're looking at new beginnings for our lives," Boulter told the Review-Journal. "We were all on cloud nine [on Friday]. During fifth period, we heard that our grad walk got canceled out of nowhere, then the rumors started getting around about what happened. The energy we had did a complete 180."
Another Arbor View senior, Adrianna Ornellas, spoke lovingly about Scott, fighting off tears.
"She was a bright sun on a very dark road," Ornellas told the outlet. "Every person she came in contact with they were happier in her presence."
On X, the Clark County School District addressed the tragic passing of McKenzie Scott by issuing a statement. The district expressed its heartbreak and extended its condolences to Scott's loved ones.
"She was a senior — full of promise, nearing graduation and looking forward to a bright future," the statement read. "In this time of sorrow, I urge our community to come together. Please remain vigilant and cautious, especially in areas near our schools. The safety of our students is a shared responsibility, and we must continue working together to protect and support them."
A GoFundMe was set up to raise funds for Scott's funeral and burial costs. The money will also serve as a support for her family.
"She was full of light, hope, and kindness," Scott's mother, Tiffany Reynolds, wrote in the GoFundMe. "Her younger brother, Kasen, and her mom, Tiffany, are absolutely devastated by this sudden loss and tragedy."
