Dothan, Ala. — A Covington County family is reeling from the heartbreaking loss of a beloved 4-year-old girl following a devastating car crash last weekend. Katie Nixon, her two sons, Fisher and Maverick, and her daughter, Everly, were involved in the accident while traveling home from their grandmother’s house in McKenzie, Alabama.
The crash, which occurred on Alabama Highway 55 in the small community of Red Level, claimed the life of young Everly. According to family member Kendal Oneal, who first learned of the incident from a friend, the news was initially met with panic. As she learned more about the wreckage, her grief turned into anger.
“When I heard about Everly, it was anger,” Oneal recalled. “I just don’t understand how it could happen.”
The family was driving a 2017 Chevy Equinox when it collided with a 2018 Chevy Silverado. Emergency responders quickly arrived on the scene, where Oneal witnessed the extensive damage and chaos.
“When I came up on the scene, it was very bad. There were a lot of lights; traffic was stopped both ways, and ambulances and police were everywhere,” Oneal said.
While Fisher and Maverick were rushed to hospitals with injuries ranging from a concussion and bruised lungs to back pain, Everly passed away on her way to Sacred Heart Hospital in Pensacola, Florida.
Fisher, who suffered a concussion, bruised lungs, and a tibia injury, has since been discharged from the hospital. Maverick, who had concerns about his back, underwent a CT scan and was found to have only bruises and soreness. Katie, however, remains in critical condition with a broken wrist, shattered kneecap, and both ankles broken. She has already undergone two surgeries and is recovering well, according to Oneal.
Despite the overwhelming grief, the community has rallied behind the Nixon family, offering support in numerous ways. A GoFundMe page has been set up to help cover medical bills, and Katie’s employer, Step One Automotive Group, is covering up to two months of the family’s utility bills.
“The community has been amazing,” Oneal said. “I am so grateful. My entire family is grateful. We have not had a single need that has not been met.”
Everly, a frequent contestant in the pageant community, was known for her radiant personality. Friends and pageant supporters have also organized fundraisers to honor her memory, providing comfort and financial assistance to the grieving family.
As they continue to navigate the aftermath of the tragedy, the Nixon family remains humbled by the outpouring of love and support from their community.
“I’m hurt, but as hurt as I am, I am so grateful for everything people have done,” Oneal added.
