Georgia Teen Killed in Tragic Church Parking Lot Accident Moments After Youth Group

Aleia Kuhn, 15, was struck in the parking lot of Philippi Baptist Church in Henry County in what authorities have described as a heartbreaking accident with no criminal intent

A 15-year-old Georgia girl was killed in a tragic accident just moments after leaving her church youth group, leaving a community heartbroken and mourning the loss of a bright young life.

The teen, identified as Aleia Kuhn, was fatally struck in the parking lot of Philippi Baptist Church in Henry County shortly after attending a youth group meeting. Authorities described the incident as a heartbreaking accident with no criminal intent. The investigation into the exact circumstances remains ongoing.

The 15-year-old girl from Georgia was killed in a tragic accident outside the Philippi Baptist Church moments after attending a youth group, according to her family and local officials

Aleia's death has devastated her family and the close-knit community of eastern Georgia. Known for her vibrant personality, deep faith, and boundless kindness, Aleia was remembered as a girl who “lit up every room she entered” and always made others feel seen and loved.

Hundreds gathered in a candlelight vigil held in the same parking lot where the accident occurred, paying tribute to Aleia and her impact on the lives of friends, classmates, and church members. The vigil was filled with prayer, tears, and shared memories, a reflection of the love and grief felt across the community.

Locals gathered in the parking lot where the accident took place to remember the teenager

Her mother, Amanda Schroeder-Kuhn, described her daughter as “my backbone and my heart,” writing in a tribute: “She was too good for this earth and her testimony and love for Jesus will live through me forever. I don’t know how to live a life without her.”

Aleia, who was just weeks away from turning 16, was known for her favorite snacks — Nerd Clusters, Kinder chocolate, salt & vinegar chips — and her love of Chick-fil-A, especially “with all the ranch.” An obituary described her as a young woman who “loved with her whole heart” and forgave easily, always looking out for others.

An obituary painted some more personal details about Aleia including how she loved Nerd Clusters, Kinder chocolate, and salt & vinegar chips. She had a love for Chick-fil-A, especially if it was with 'all the ranch.'

Youth leaders at Philippi Baptist Church said Aleia embodied compassion and inclusion. “If a kid sat alone, she went to sit with them,” one leader shared. “She had a gift for lifting others up.”

Aleia’s family has been surrounded by an outpouring of support. A local nonprofit, Caring for a Cause, launched a memorial fund to assist the Kuhn family with funeral costs and other needs during their time of grief.

“Aleia’s life was short, but her impact was immeasurable,” her family wrote. “Though our selfishness wants her back, we know that if she had the choice, she wouldn’t come back. Heaven is too beautiful, and her joy there is complete.”

Aleia Kuhn is survived by her parents, Chris and Amanda Kuhn; her brothers Corben and Colter Kuhn; and a large extended family including grandparents, great-grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, friends, and church members — all shattered by her sudden loss.