A deep sense of grief has swept through the Woden Independent School District and surrounding communities following the tragic death of 17-year-old student Kaedyn “KK” Nelson, who was killed in an ATV crash on private property in Etoile on Sunday afternoon.

According to the Nacogdoches County Sheriff’s Office, the accident occurred around 12 p.m. on October 5. Emergency responders, including the Etoile Volunteer Fire Department, arrived quickly at the scene and began administering life-saving aid to the injured teen. A Life Flight helicopter and EMS personnel were also dispatched, but despite their best efforts, Nelson succumbed to her injuries while being treated at the scene.

Sheriff Jason Bridges confirmed Nelson’s identity and described her as a beloved member of the Woden community — a young woman whose life had already been marked by both extraordinary courage and unwavering faith.

“Kaedyn Nelson, who often went by ‘KK,’ was beloved in our community,” Sheriff Bridges said. “When she was 10 years old, she was diagnosed with rhabdomyosarcoma, an aggressive form of cancer. It was a battle she fought and won by the grace of God. In 2019, she was in full remission and had completely recovered.”

Bridges added that Kaedyn’s bright personality and compassion left a lasting impact on everyone she met.

“KK had an infectious smile and a love for everyone around her,” he continued. “She was known for her deep faith in Christ and her desire to share that love with others. She put the needs of others before her own and touched countless lives in our community.”

The Woden ISD community has expressed heartfelt condolences to the Nelson family, remembering Kaedyn as a vibrant, kind-hearted student whose spirit inspired both peers and teachers. Grief counselors have been made available at the school to support students and staff during this difficult time.

Friends and neighbors have taken to social media to share memories of Kaedyn, describing her as a “ray of sunshine” and “a warrior with a heart full of faith.”

The Nacogdoches County Sheriff’s Office said that anyone wishing to help the Nelson family can make donations through Southside Bank, where a fund has been established in Kaedyn’s memory.

Kaedyn Nelson’s passing has left an irreplaceable void in the hearts of all who knew her — a young life remembered not only for her resilience and strength but for the joy, faith, and kindness she shared so freely.