What began as a carefree summer adventure on the water turned into an unimaginable tragedy for a Florida family — and a moment of unforgettable bravery.
Eleven-year-old Jordan Roe, lovingly called the family’s “protector,” lost her life while saving her 8-year-old cousin Laila in a devastating accident.
Jordan, Laila, and their 9-year-old cousin Brylee were riding an inflatable tube pulled by a Sea-Doo jet ski when the watercraft slammed into a dock, throwing all three children into the lake.
Brylee escaped with only minor injuries, but Laila was critically hurt and rushed to the hospital. Later, Jordan’s relatives learned the heartbreaking truth: she had shielded Laila during the collision, sacrificing herself so her cousin might live.
“She gave her life for Laila,” her aunt said through tears. “She was always the protector.”
At the time of the accident, Kristine Robinson — mother to Laila and Brylee — was in Tampa tending to her newborn in the NICU. She received the devastating call miles away.
Now, she pleads with parents to embrace their children and prioritize safety around water. “Please, hug your kids a little tighter,” Robinson urged. “We all want to have fun, but we must be cautious.”
Laila remains in the pediatric ICU after undergoing multiple surgeries. Her family believes Jordan’s courage saved her cousin’s life, and they continue to hold on to hope as she recovers.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is investigating the crash and asking witnesses or anyone with footage to come forward.
Meanwhile, tributes to Jordan have flooded in from friends, neighbors, and even strangers. Known for her love of animals and dream of becoming a veterinarian, she was remembered as a compassionate soul who always put others first.
On a GoFundMe page, Robinson described her niece as “a free spirit with a heart full of kindness” and revealed that Jordan’s final wish was to be an organ donor. Even in death, Jordan has given others a chance at life.
“You were a light in our lives, and that light will never fade,” wrote family friend Allison Hadley in a heartfelt Facebook post.
Two fundraisers have been launched — one to assist with Jordan’s funeral expenses, and another to help cover Laila’s ongoing medical costs. Donations have poured in from across the community, moved by the story of Jordan’s courage and sacrifice.
Local resident Steven Gabbard captured the shock many felt: “Star Lake is usually so calm. None of us could ever imagine something like this happening here.”
Though her family is devastated, Jordan’s spirit lives on — in her cousin’s survival, in the lives she saved through organ donation, and in the countless hearts touched by her story.
Jordan Roe’s final act of love shows that true heroism has no age limit. Her bravery and compassion have left an everlasting imprint on her family, her community, and all who hear of her sacrifice. Though her life was far too short, her legacy remains — the shining light of a young protector who gave everything for others.