Florida Girl, 11, Dies Saving Cousin in Tragic Tubing Accident: “She Gave Her Life with Love”
Keywords: Florida tubing accident, child hero, Jordan Roe, Star Lake tragedy, organ donor child, water safety reminder, Laila recovery update, Jet Ski accident Florida
A Joyful Summer Day Turns into a Family’s Worst Nightmare
What began as a carefree summer afternoon on Star Lake, Florida, turned into an unimaginable tragedy — and a moment of profound heroism that left an entire community shaken.
On Tuesday, June 24, 2025, 11-year-old Jordan Roe lost her life in a devastating tubing accident. But in her final moments, she performed an act of love and bravery that would define her legacy forever: she saved her 8-year-old cousin, Laila, from drowning.
A Child with a Heart for Others
Jordan, affectionately known by her family as “the protector,” had always shown deep compassion for others. Whether caring for animals, dreaming of becoming a vet, or simply looking after her younger cousins, Jordan’s kindness ran deep.
That selflessness was tragically on full display during the family’s tubing trip.
According to WCJB, Jordan, Laila, and 9-year-old Brylee were riding together on a float being pulled behind a Sea-Doo Jet Ski on Star Lake, which borders Putnam and Alachua Counties. The jet ski suddenly veered off course and crashed into a dock, throwing all three children into the water.
Confusion and Heartbreak in the Aftermath
In the chaos that followed, initial reports misidentified the victim. But it was Jordan who was later confirmed to have died. Brylee suffered only minor bruises, while Laila was critically injured and rushed to the hospital for emergency surgery.
Her survival, the family says, is entirely because of Jordan.
“Jordan sacrificed her life, and she saved her cousin’s life with her life,”
her aunt said, her voice heavy with grief and admiration.
A Mother’s Unimaginable Call
Kristine Robinson, the mother of Laila and Brylee, was in Tampa caring for her newborn in the NICU when she received the call that would change her family forever.
“I just ask everyone, hold your babies tight,”
Robinson told **WJHG**.
“We all want to have fun with our kids. Please be careful.”
Laila’s Ongoing Recovery and Jordan’s Enduring Legacy
As Laila continues to fight for her life in a pediatric ICU, her family clings to the memory of the cousin who gave her another chance. Laila has already undergone multiple surgeries and is showing signs of strength — a testament to the bond she shared with Jordan.
Meanwhile, Jordan’s memory is being honored far and wide.
A GoFundMe campaign created in her name describes the 11-year-old as a “free spirit” with a heart for helping others. The page highlights her dream of becoming a veterinarian and how she often woke up checking if her hands were steady enough to care for animals.
“Jordan died as she lived — protecting her family,”
wrote Robinson.
“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.”
A Community in Mourning
Locals and strangers alike have rallied around the Roe family. Two fundraising pages have been launched: one to help cover Jordan’s funeral expenses, and another to support Laila’s ongoing medical treatment.
Steven Gabbard, a longtime resident of Star Lake, echoed the shock felt across the community.
“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.”
Remembering a Brave Heart
Despite the heartbreak, Jordan’s final act — laying down her life to save someone else — has become a powerful symbol of courage, love, and sacrifice. At only 11 years old, she showed a level of bravery that most can only imagine.
“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,”
wrote family friend **Allison Hadley** in an emotional Facebook tribute.
As the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission continues to investigate the accident, they’re urging anyone with video footage or information to come forward.
But in the eyes of many, the most important part of the story has already been written — in the selfless, heroic final chapter of a girl who will never be forgotten.
