Ringgold teen killed in auto accident

The Ringgold community is in mourning following the tragic loss of a bright, young girl who was killed in an automobile accident Monday evening, Sept. 5, while returning to college in Alabama after visiting home for the holiday weekend.

Eighteen-year-old Katie Beth Carter, a recent Heritage High School graduate who was a student at Jacksonville State University, died from injuries suffered after a tractor-trailer hit her vehicle just before 4 p.m.

Carter was airlifted to the hospital but was pronounced dead around 6 p.m.

According to the Alabama Highway Patrol, the cause of the crash is still under investigation.

Carter, who excelled at Heritage High, had performed in her first Jacksonville State football game as a Marching Ballerina on Thursday, Sept. 1, before coming home to visit family.

“She always came to practice with a smile. She was joyful,” said Noelle Stovall, JSU’s Ballerina coordinator. “She was the perfect Ballerina to have on the line. She worked hard, she was dedicated, and her joy was contagious.”

Students, family and friends gathered at Heritage High Monday night, Sept. 5, after learning of the news. The school also held a candlelight vigil Wednesday night, Sept. 7, at the school to honor the teen.

“Even though I know where she is now, my heart is completely broken for her sweet family,” said family friend Susan Foster. “My thoughts and prayers are with the entire family, as well as everyone whose life was touched by Katie Beth.”

Family, friends, and fellow classmates are working to set up a scholarship fund in honor of Carter.

For related article, see Sports section.