A tragic hit-and-run boating incident at Grapevine Lake, Texas, has claimed the life of 18-year-old Ava Renee Moore, who was kayaking when she was struck by a jet ski on Sunday evening, May 25, 2025. According to officials, first responders from Grapevine Fire Department arrived near Oak Grove Park around 5:20 p.m., where Moore was found unresponsive with severe head trauma. She was rushed to a nearby hospital but succumbed to her injuries shortly after.
Investigators report that two women were riding the jet ski involved in the collision. After the crash, the passenger remained at the scene, but the driver fled with a male companion. Disturbingly, the fleeing pair also hit a vehicle while leaving, further compounding the investigation. The Texas Game Wardens are spearheading the investigation into the watercraft incident, while Grapevine Police are handling the vehicle hit-and-run aspect. Law enforcement officials are requesting the public’s help in identifying the jet ski driver. A photo of the suspect has been circulated and anyone with information is urged to contact the Grapevine Police Department.
Ava Moore was visiting her family in North Texas for Memorial Day weekend and had plans to join the U.S. military, with basic training scheduled to begin in just a few weeks. She had just completed a season with the United States Air Force Academy Preparatory School’s basketball team in Colorado. Coach Ke’sha Blanton, who mentored Ava, described her as ambitious, dedicated, and inspiring, sharing heartfelt memories of their final conversation.
“We talked about her future she wanted to be a four-star general. She lit up every room she entered,” said Blanton. “Our last words were, ‘Kid, I love you,’ and she said, ‘I love you, too, Coach.’” The news has left her family, friends, and community devastated. Blanton expressed the pain and anger felt by many: “They took a bright, bright star from our lives. Anger that they left her. Anger that they didn’t try to help her.”
Authorities have issued a photo of the suspected jet ski driver, hoping the public can help bring justice to Ava’s grieving family. The jet ski incident is being treated as a felony hit-and-run, and Grapevine police are urging anyone with tips or leads to come forward immediately. As the community mourns the loss of a young woman with a promising future, law enforcement continues its search for the individual responsible.
