“Our Hearts Still Ache Tremendously”: Hiking Community Mourns the Devastating Loss of 17-Year-Old Cheerleader Following a Horrifying Accident

On Friday, Zoe McKinney, a 17-year-old Grand County High School student (Moab, Utah) went on a hiking trip. However, she had no idea it would be her last adventure. McKinney went hiking on the Moab Rim Trail with her friends, but at one point, the teen slipped and lost her balance. According to a report from the Moab City Police department, around 4:10 pm (16:10) McKinney lost her life after falling off a 30 ft high “sheer cliff face.”

Moab is a famous spot for hikers and climbers. The iconic arches and Canyonlands of the Moab National Park attract countless tourists from all over the world. Unfortunately, hikers and climbers also meet with accidents at Moab. In 2022, a canyoneering guide lost her life in a climbing accident in Moab. The teen’s friends called 911 after she fell and tried to reach her but didn’t have the equipment. After the tragic passing of the 17-year-old cheerleader, the entire community mourned the loss.

The community offers condolences and support after McKinney’s fatal hiking accident

“The school community is grieving with Zoe’s family and will provide love and support in any way we can,” Grand County High School wrote in their message. They also mentioned that a therapist would be available at school on Monday. “Zoe was a remarkable student, and we will honor her memory throughout the remainder of this senior year.” Read the message.

FOX13 Salt Lake City spoke with the cheerleader’s friends. Her friends told the news outlet that she had “a big heart” and was a “very loving friend.” McKinney’s friend Iryss told the FOX13 that, “she (Zoe McKinney) was working on getting her EMT license, because that’s all she wanted to do was help people.”

READ MORE | Ice Climbing Proves Fatal for 31-Year-Old American as Widowed Wife Details Michigan Shocker

The police department also released a statement on social media. “Our hearts still ache tremendously for this beautiful young woman’s family and friends. God Bless, and please reach out to us for any needs,” read the statement. The police department also said they would be happy to help those who are having a hard time coping with the tragic incident.

Watch this story | 31-Year-Old Former Dallas Cowboys Tight End, Galvin Escobar, Tragically Passes Away In a Rock Climbing Accident

Do you believe all hikers should carry safety equipment while on the trail? Write your thoughts in the comments.