A Florida Family’s Day on the Lake Turns Tragic—But Not Without an Act of Unforgettable Bravery

What began as a joyful summer outing quickly turned into a heartbreaking tragedy on Star Lake, Florida. On Tuesday, June 24, 11-year-old Jordan Roe lost her life in a tubing accident—but not before she made the ultimate sacrifice: saving her 8-year-old cousin, Laila.

Jordan’s final moments were marked not by panic, but by love and protection—traits her family says defined her life from the beginning.

A Day of Family Fun Turns into a Tragedy

The Roe family had gathered for a barbecue and a day of fun in the sun. The children—Jordan, Laila, and 9-year-old Brylee—were enjoying a tubing ride behind a Sea-Doo jet ski on Star Lake, a body of water located along the Putnam and Alachua County line in Florida.

But joy quickly turned to disaster when the jet ski lost control and slammed into a dock. The impact threw all three children from the tube and into the water, according to local news station WCJB.

At first, confusion surrounded the scene. Authorities had not yet released names, and early reports incorrectly stated that the 8-year-old had died. The truth was even more heartbreaking: Jordan Roe had not survived.

While Brylee suffered only minor injuries, Laila was rushed to the hospital in critical condition, undergoing multiple surgeries to address internal injuries. According to the family, it was Jordan’s quick and selfless actions that helped shield Laila during the impact—saving her cousin’s life at the cost of her own.

“The Protector”: A Young Girl Remembered for Her Courage and Love

Jordan wasn’t just any 11-year-old. She was the family’s “protector,” known for her loving nature and her desire to help others. Her family describes her as having a “heart as big as her smile,” a girl who was mature beyond her years and passionate about animals. She dreamed of becoming a veterinarian and often spoke about helping those in need.

“Jordan sacrificed her life, and she saved her cousin’s life with her life,” said her aunt in a statement. Her bravery was instinctive—an extension of how she had always lived.

Kristine Robinson, mother to Laila and Brylee, was in Tampa at the time of the accident, tending to her newborn baby in the NICU. The call she received that day is every parent’s worst nightmare.

A Mother’s Plea for Awareness and Water Safety

Now, Kristine is speaking out—not only to honor Jordan but to urge other families to be cautious when enjoying recreational activities on the water.

“I just ask everyone, hold your babies tight,” she told local reporters at WJHG. “We all want to have fun with our kids. Please be careful.”

Jordan’s sacrifice has since drawn an outpouring of support from across the country. Her story has touched thousands, and her community is rallying around the family with love, donations, and messages of condolences.

A Community in Mourning—and in Awe

As the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) continues its investigation into the accident, they are asking for anyone who may have witnessed the crash or has video footage to come forward.

Meanwhile, tributes have flooded social media. A GoFundMe page launched in Jordan’s memory described her as “a free spirit and compassionate,” noting how she often woke up asking if her hands were steady enough to help animals or people.

“Jordan died as she lived—protecting her family,” Robinson shared in an emotional update. “Even in her passing, she gave the gift of life to others through organ donation, fulfilling her wish to bring hope and smiles to those in need.”

Family friend Allison Hadley echoed that sentiment in a tearful Facebook post:

“The love, laughter, and joy you brought will echo in our hearts forever. You were a light in our lives, and that light will never fade.”

Fundraising Efforts for a Hero’s Legacy

Two fundraising campaigns have been launched in the wake of the tragedy—one to assist with Jordan’s funeral expenses, and another to support Laila’s ongoing medical treatment. Donations and heartfelt messages have poured in, showing just how far Jordan’s story has traveled and how deeply it has impacted people from all walks of life.

A Hero Remembered

Local resident Steven Gabbard, who has lived near Star Lake for years, said the tragedy hit close to home.

“Oh my gosh. It’s unbelievable,” he told First Coast News. “Star Lake is usually so peaceful. You don’t expect this kind of tragedy.”

But even amid such sadness, Jordan Roe’s courage stands out. Her final act was one of pure love and instinct—a level of bravery that many adults would struggle to summon. Jordan didn’t hesitate. In the most critical moment, she gave everything to protect someone else.

Conclusion: A Life That Will Never Be Forgotten

Jordan’s story is one of profound courage, compassion, and selflessness. Though her life was far too short, it was filled with meaning. She is remembered not only as a beloved daughter, cousin, and friend but as a true hero—one whose final action was a gift of life.

Her legacy now lives on in Laila’s recovery, the lives she touched, and the organs she donated to help others in need. In life and in death, Jordan Roe made the world a better place.

Let her story serve as a reminder: to cherish our loved ones, to live selflessly, and to honor the everyday heroes among us.

Sources

• WCJB – Local Coverage of the Star Lake Tubing Incident
• WJHG – Family Speaks Out After Tubing Tragedy
• First Coast News – Community Reaction
• GoFundMe – Jordan Roe Memorial Fund
• Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission