Community gathers for vigil in memory of child killed by lightning in Bryan

BRYAN, Texas (KBTX) – The community gathered at Kemp-Carver Elementary School in Bryan Tuesday night to support the family of 7-year-old Quinece Turner, who tragically lost her life last Thursday when she was struck by lightning during a severe storm.

Quinece was fatally injured outside a home between Bryan and Wickson Valley around 5 p.m. when a sudden storm brought heavy rain, wind and lightning to Brazos County. Emergency personnel from the Bryan Fire Department and Brazos County VFD Precinct 2 were dispatched, but Turner had already been taken by private vehicle to St. Joseph Hospital in Bryan.

Although tears were shed at Tuesday’s vigil, Florica stressed the importance of celebrating Quinece’s life in a positive way rather than making it a time of mourning.

“She was always happy, always had a smile on her face, was cheeky and loving. We said to each other several times a day: ‘We love each other’, all day long, every day, as often as we could,” said Florica.

Quinece touched the lives of many people, including her cousin Marcus Turner, who spoke of her loving nature.

“I can tell you that she had a quiet spirit here at Kemp-Carver School, as far as I can tell. I found that outside of school she was very lively and had a lot of personality. So I would say she was just a sweet young lady, an average kid who just loved to show love,” Marcus said.

The Bryan Independent School District opened its doors and organized a vigil in the school gym, for which Marcus said the family is grateful.

“It’s a great feeling to know that you’re working with someone who loves kids, but not only loves kids, but also knows the voice of God. To hear the voice of God and say, ‘Hey, listen, let’s try to make this the best we can.’ That’s a great joy. Not everyone can say they have a boss like Alison Bogan who makes sure that not only our physical needs are met and we teach them, but that we show that love in the classroom and outside the classroom,” Marcus added.

Despite the challenges, the Turner family remains steadfast.

“You can react in a certain way. You know what I mean? You can react either positively or negatively, but it’s about staying positive and enjoying every moment,” Florica said.

“It’s been challenging for us in a lot of ways. It’s been challenging to make sure that we’re showing more love in every moment. Making sure that we love each other. Taking the opportunity to spread that love and making sure that even in our hectic moments or whatever the case may be, we’ve learned to slow down and just make sure that the moment counts,” Marcus added.

The Bryan-College Station community continues to support the Turner family during this difficult time. A GoFundMe campaign to help cover funeral expenses has raised over $17,000 from more than 300 donors.

All rights reserved.